Residents warned to keep homes secure as clocks go back (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Residents warned to keep homes secure as clocks go back

12:00pm Saturday 27th October 2012 in News By Ian Craig

WITH clocks due to go back tonight, residents are being advised to take extra measures to war off potential burglars.

Cotswold District Council community safety officer Tony Dix said potential burglars are attracted to houses which are in complete darkness during the afternoon.

“At this time of year, many families leave home in the mornings while it is still dark and don’t arrive back until early evening,” he said. “When they vacate their houses at the start of the day and switch off the lights they send out a clear signal that the house is unoccupied.

“This is a particular problem around about teatime if a house remains in complete darkness while others in the neighbourhood are lit up, and obviously increases the risk of intruders.”

Tony, along with local police officers, are advising residents to take a number of steps to reduce the possibility of burglary: - Use a timer switch to turn on lights, a radio or a television in your home.

- If you are going out for the evening, leave lights on.

- Fit a low wattage lamp with a ‘dusk to dawn’ sensor to the outside of your house.

- Visible alarms will put burglars off – consider installing an alarm at your house and on your car, especially if it is left outside at night.

- Do not leave items on view inside a car.

- Many burglars enter through a rear door or window, so make sure good quality window and door locks are used.

- Use high fencing or prickly bushes to make it difficult for thieves to enter a back garden.

- Make sure any gates leading to the rear of your property are kept locked.

- Secure all sheds and garages with strong padlocks and make sure ladders and expensive items are fastened down and marked with your postcode. You may be able to connect a house alarm to your garage.

- Ask a neighbour to keep an eye on your house and report any suspicious activity to the police.

- Mark all valuables and electrical goods with your house number or name and your postcode.

For more advice, contact Tony Dix on 01285 623 000 or contact your local policing team.