Are you planning to go out for an evening over the festive season?
Dark evenings make it easier for burglars to spot which homes are empty.
Most burglaries are carried out by opportunist thieves who look for security lapses, such as unlocked doors and windows.
Derbyshire Police officers acknowledge that you have 101 things on your mind at this time of year but are asking you to take a moment to help reduce the risk of your home and valuables being targeted when you’re out.
The best things you can do are:
- make sure your doors and windows are locked shut.
- leave a light or lamp on an automatic timer.
- keep car keys in a secure place and not on a key hook.
- if you have a burglar alarm, make sure it’s set.
- install good outdoor security lighting.
- make sure Christmas presents and valuables are not easy to spot from the outside.
A statement from Derbyshire Police said that the county continues to be a safe place to live, and that officers don't want people to feel alarmed, but instead to be alert and security conscious.
The statement also encourages residents to be good neighbours and contact them if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your area. You can report this via the Derbyshire Police website or by calling 101 for all non-emergencies. You should phone 999 in an emergency or if you suspect a crime to be in progress.
It also added that whilst it is easy to think it will never happen to you, to please take that extra moment to make sure you’re secure and help Derbyshire Police officers to keep your homes safe at this time of year.
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