Havering police urge vigilance in fight against fair-weather burglars
As residents prepare for the summer and the warm weather it brings, police are urging people to be mindful of fair-weather burglars who target open windows.
Neighbourhood teams are always on the lookout for known burglars or anyone acting suspiciously - but say they the most effective resource officers have in the fight against break-ins is help from the community.
Ch Insp Joanne Chinn, of Havering Police, said: “At this time of year we often see a rise in burglary and attempted burglaries due to the ease of access to properties. Please help us to make 2014 the springtime that doesn’t attract burglars to homes in our borough and keep victims of this distressing crime to a minimum.”
In 2013/2014, there were 359 less burglaries than the previous year, and Ch Insp Chinn asked for help in maintaining the reduction.
She added: “Please make sure your home doesn’t attract opportunist burglars by using the security you have to its fullest effect.”
A spokesman said: “At this time of year we are all tempted to throw open our windows to let in fresh air but what else are we letting in?
“Open windows and doors can attract the unwanted attention of thieves and police reccommend securely closing all exterior doors and windows in unoccupied rooms.
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“If you see anything suspicious, dial 999. Officers would rather attend a false alarm than miss the opportunity to keep a resident and their property safe.”
To discuss burglary prevention or ask for advice, contact your neighbourhood team who will be happy to help. If you don’t know who your team are visit met.police.uk or contact police on 101.
If you have information about burglary or any other crime please call police by dialing 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Read more:
Police helicopter in Collier Row helps find suspected burglars
Harold Hill, Harold Wood and Noak Hill are UK burglary hotspots
