Clocks Going Forward - Crime Prevention Advice

Monday, 29 March 2010 09:51

With the clocks having gone forward this weekend householders across Norfolk are being urged not to make it easy for potential thieves.

Officers are advising people to pay extra attention to home and vehicle security with the onset of the warm weather – often seen as an opportunist time for this type of crime.

Chief Superintendent Tony Cherington, of Norfolk Constabulary, said: “Most thefts are carried out by opportunist thieves.

“The summer months can bring with them thieves on the look out for lapses in security – such as doors and windows left open or property left on display at beauty spot car parks.

“People are advised to be aware and make use of simple crime prevention methods which deprive thieves of the opportunity to steal.”

Norfolk Constabulary offers the following advice to residents:

• Householders are reminded to keep windows and doors locked and secure at all times, whether they are inside or outside the home.
• Attention should be paid to the security of sheds and garages and to the property stored within.
• Parked cars – especially those left in remote areas such as beauty spots – should be left locked and secure with no property left on display.
• Satellite navigation devices, car audio equipment, cameras, handbags and laptops should be removed from the vehicle entirely.
• People attending large scale events or out and about in busy areas should be mindful of thieves and keep handbags closed and mobile phones out of sight and kept securely on their person.
• People should mark their belongings – this will make them less attractive to steal and make it more difficult for them to be sold on.
• Be a good neighbour – If anyone is spotted acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, call the police.

Chief Supt Cherington, added: “Norfolk is an extremely safe place to live and your chances of being a victim of such crime still remain extremely low but you should look at your home through a thief's eyes. Don’t become an easy target.”

Anyone with information about thieves operating in the area should contact Norfolk Constabulary on 0845 456 4567 or Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111.