Be aware of your summer security

Added: 13/05/2008
Category: Suffolk Constabulary

Ipswich Police are reminding the public to be extra vigilant and consider the security of their property at all times now the evenings are lighter and the weather has improved and following a spate of burglaries and thefts around the town.

Since 1st May 2008 half of the reported burglaries (50%) have taken place at insecure properties with entry being gained through an open window or door.

It is a fact that keeping windows and doors of houses, sheds and garages locked and secure significantly reduces the chances of being burgled and the Police are asking for the public’s help with this. The police message is quite clear – Lock up and keep safe.

The current burglaries are happening at all hours of the day and night, often when the victims are at home in another room, or asleep at night.

Basic security steps to reduce the chances of becoming a victim of burglary are:

*Lock the doors every time you go out – keeping them locked when you are at home is good practise too.
*Close windows when you go out or go to bed.
*Take your house and car keys, bags and wallets upstairs with you at bedtime and don’t leave them in an obvious place if you are out in the garden.
*Never leave handbags, wallets or valuable items visible through a window or by an insecure door even during the day.
*Leave a light on or use a timer switch at night if you are out so your house looks occupied.
*Join a Neighbourhood Watch scheme so you and your neighbours are looking out for suspicious activity.

This weekend saw an increase in items stolen from parks. Predominantly these items were left insecure and unattended while people were enjoying themselves. Inevitably, their day was ruined on finding their property stolen.

Detective Inspector Kevin Hayward of Ipswich CID said, “Whilst Suffolk is a safe place, people should not be complacent and should take steps to protect their property. If your property is attractive or valuable to you, it is likely to be just that to a potential thief. Please take our advice to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime. In the unfortunate case that you are burgled or have something stolen, ensure you have photographed and security marked your valuables so they can be identified and returned to you if they are recovered.”

Property items can be registered with a free database called Immobilise. This national system is used by most police forces, including Suffolk – all you need to do is enter the serial number of your phone, computer, MP3 player, bike or anything else with such a code, and update the system if it is lost or stolen. If the police seize stolen property, or an item is found, officers can search the database to find out who the item belongs to, and your property will be returned. You can also use the system to find out if a second-hand item you want to buy is stolen.

Further information on home security can be found on our website www.suffolk.police.uk. Shed alarms are available from police stations and free advice on home security is available from your local Crime Reduction Officer via the switchboard on 01473 613500.

Ipswich Police are also urging people to report any suspicious activity. It is imperative that anyone who notices something or someone acting suspiciously, no matter how insignificant they feel it is, calls the police straight away on 01473 613500 or 999 if a crime is in progress, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you know who is committing burglaries call Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.