Autumn is here and it’s starting to get dark earlier

Check out these 5 crime prevention points for you to consider during the Autumn and winter periods to improve the security of your home.

• Secure and lock your doors and windows even when you are in the house. 1 in 3 burglaries reported to Humberside Police involve entry being gained through an open window or an unlocked door, so this easy action could reduce the risk of your home being broken into.
• Close your curtains/blinds at night, not only will it assist in keeping your home warm, but it will also prevent people being able to see in and identify items that they may decide to target. When your lights are on at night, it is difficult to see what is happening outside, but those outside can see in quite easily.
• Ensure that any external lights are in good working order. We recommend using dusk to dawn lighting around your home, but lights on PIR sensors that are activated by movement are also suitable. If you currently have no external lights, either of these options could be considered to improve your security.
• Ensure that CCTV cameras are working and there is suitable signage. It has been shown that CCTV in operation signs, used in conjunction with the CCTV do aid to deter criminals from targeting a property. If you are looking at options for CCTV, we recommend considering motion activated cameras that will alert you if movement is detected.
• Consider using smart lights or light timers that will make your home look occupied when you are out. If you are likely to be away for more than a couple of days, please consider setting your lights to come on at different times, or you may unintentionally recreate the scene from ‘Home Alone’ where the ‘burglars’ know exactly when your lights are due to come on.

Thanks to PC Jamie Steele, Crime Reduction Officer at Humberside Police for providing the above advice.

Don’t forget the Neighbourhood Network has a low-cost crime reduction equipment shop, for more information visit. – Neighbourhood Network Hull