Monday, June 1, 2009

Opportunist crime expected to rise over summer

Police are warning homeowners in St Helens to guard against an expected jump in opportunist crime during the summer months.
Statistics shows crooks use the lighter evenings to target expensive equipment left in garden sheds and garages.Power tools, hand tools, plant containers, sports equipment, bicycles and toys are among the items viewed as easy picking by criminals, say police. Crime Reduction Officer Michelle Harrison said: "Many people forget to secure their garden, shed or garage. As most burglary is opportunistic, if a burglar spots a chance to steal something and get away with it, they will. "By following simple precautions you can make your property secure and prevent yourself from becoming victim to this type of crime. "Crime-busting tips include:* Security mark their valuable items and install security lights.* Bikes should be locked to something heavy e.g. a workbench.* Never leave a garage or garden shed unlocked, especially if it has a connecting door to the house - a thief could get in and work on the inner door in privacy.* Ensure garage and shed doors are fitted with a strong padlock and ensure they are solid enough not to be kicked in.* Lock ladders inside the garage or shed to stop a thief using them to reach inaccessible windows. If there is no room inside, chain or padlock them horizontally to a sturdy bracket on an outside wall.* A thorny hedge along the boundary can work as a deterrent. But make sure that the front of the house is still visible to passers by so a burglar cannot work unseen.

(Reproduced from the St Helens Reporter, 1st June)

GARDIEN TIP: A full range of free advice can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

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