We had a letter come through our door today and I thought I would share it. It’s from the Devon & Cornwall Police.
“Dear Occupier
I am your local Police Community Support Officer. Do you know how a Burglar’s mind works? In most cases burglary is an opportunistic crime, the burglar slects their target befause it offers the best opportunity to cary out the crime undetected and with the fewest obstacles in their way. A building, shed or garage that presents itself insecure or unattended is far more likely to be targeted than one that is effectively secured. As well as an increase in burlarlies there has also been an increase in vehicle crime especially thefts from motor vehicles. The criminals who take items from vehicles are equally as opportunist, and anything of any value left on show in your vehicle will be taken.
I have made a list below of the obvious areas where I believe [b]your home[/b] presents itself as potentially vulnerable to burglary.
1. Accessible window open.
2. Ladders available to allow access to otherwise inaccessible windows.
3. Garden tools available to force entry.
4. Garage or shed insecure.
5. Bottles of milk or parcels left on the doorstep.
6. Newspapers or mail left protruding from the letterbox or visible through glazed front doors.
7. Unlit house after darkness or curtains drawn during the day.
8. Easy access to the rear of the property, the likely point of entry.
9. Property of value in clear view of passers-by.
10. Wooden front door with a single yale lock.
Please [b][u]make sure[/u][/b] both your car and house are always left secure and that nothing is left on show [b][u]at all in your car.[u][/b]
Are [u][b]you[/b][/u] satisfied with your home security? Does it meet the requirements of your building/contents insurer? Many security measures cost little or no money and the improvements could reduce the likelihood of your becoming a victim of burglary.
Should you require further specific advice to inluce a crime prevention security survey free of charge please contact me on 08452 777 444 providing your name, addres and contact telephone number.
PCSO 30436 Willis”