Neighbourhood alert from Gloucestershire Police:
Dear Residents,
There have been several burglaries and Shed Breaks reported within the past few days for both residential and commercial properties. In particular within the Longlevens, Hucclecote and the Coney Hill area.
You are kindly reminded to please consider the wide approach to your property.
The W.I.D.E. campaign, may have offer some ideas you have not thought of before. Equally If you would require a home security survey we would be more than happy to come and offer any advice on how to improve the security of your property.
WIDE
Get 49 times more protection against burglary by installing a ‘WIDE’ combination of security devices*
A ‘WIDE’ combination includes:
Window locks
Indoor lights on timer switches
Double door locks or deadbolts
External lights on a sensor
Burglars look for opportunities:
They want to find empty-looking homes, where they can’t be seen by neighbours and where they can get in and out quickly. Take away their opportunities by installing the ‘WIDE’ combination of security devices and by carrying out the following actions:
Is your back gate your weak spot?
Stop access to your back garden. It is really important. Install strong fences and gates and make sure they are kept locked. Make it difficult for burglars to climb over them by adding trellis and spiky plants. Burglars enjoy the privacy of a back garden as it allows them to spend the time they need to get into your home often by smashing patio doors.
Install CCTV or digital doorbells
Install external CCTV or digital doorbells. Burglars don’t want to be seen and these devices can capture evidence we can circulate amongst our officers and the public.
Can your neighbours see your entrances and exits?
Increase the visibility of the entrances and exits of your home. Cut back and remove any plants, bushes and high fencing that block your neighbour’s view of your home. Burglars do not want to be seen as they may get caught.
Mark your property with forensic marking liquids
Use forensic marking liquids to increase the likelihood of getting your belongings back. These liquids act like DNA evidence and can be used to link recovered property back to you. Popular brands include SmartWater, SelectaDNA and ImmobiDot. You may be able to purchase these kits at a discounted price from us at our events as well as through your local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.
DNA marking Kits can be purchased from the Constabulary for £12.50
Check if valuables are on show
Check what valuables can be seen from the outside of your home. If there are items that may look tempting to a burglar remove them from view and make sure they are marked with a registered forensic marking liquid.
Wheelie bins, tools and heavy garden objects
Wheelie bins left out the front offer burglars help to get over your fences. Tools and heavy objects left out help them smash or force their way in. Put them away.
LOCAL POLICE CRIME SHOP
The local poling teams also offer items for sale via the crime prevention shop. This shop offers window and shed alarms amongst other crime prevention tools within the crime shop. We do have a list of items that are sold that can be e-mailed out to those that request it.
PLEASE REMEMBER THAT IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF A CRIME IN PROGRESS TO CONTACT 999.
FOR ALL OTHER NON EMERGENCIES PLEASE CONTACT 101.
Benjamin Rollins. PCSO 9105
