Sunshine crime spree police warning

HOT Bank Holiday weather has brought a crime wave in Doncaster’s gardens, police have warned.
Officers responsible for policing the borough have seen a spike in the number of thefts from outside homes as residents get out on their lawns and patios.
The rise in reports has prompted an appeal for residents to be vigilant and keep their property secure.
A spokesman said the last few weeks had seen an increase in thefts of items such as garden furniture, hanging baskets and ornaments.
Sgt Jez Fitzgibbons said: “We have had a number of thefts reported over the last week, where items have been stolen from gardens.
“The people committing these thefts will undoubtedly be opportunistic thieves who pass by and see something they like or can sell.
“We need the public to help us prevent these types of thefts and ensure everybody can continue enjoying the sunshine.”
Police says they want to remind residents to ensure their property is secure, by locking items away in a shed or garage when they are not in use, and securing hanging baskets to walls.
The current heatwave started two weeks ago and has seen many residents taking to their gardens.
In Doncaster, it has seen families heading out to the borough’s parks to take in the weather.
Forecasters are expecting more sunshine for Doncaster over the Bank Holiday weekend, although temperatures were expected to be lower than those residents enjoyed over Easter, with temperatures of 16C today and 15C tomorrow and Sunday.
Police are offering advice on keeping the current wave of thieves out.
For more information on how to keep your home secure, residents are being advised to speak to officers from their Safer Neighbourhood Team.
Log onto www.southyorks.police.uk and enter your postcode or call 0114 2202020 for details of your local team.

(Reproduced from The Star 30th April 2011)

Gardien Tip: Lock items away in sheds as suggested above but make sure the shed itself is secure. See our article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm