Stay vigilant as clocks go back
As the clocks go back this weekend and the nights get darker, Suffolk police is urging the public to increase their vigilance around home and vehicle security.
To prevent the seasonal increase in burglaries and theft from motor vehicles, the force is encouraging householders and motorists to follow some simple crime prevention advice to keep their property safe.
Residents are advised to perform the following four simple checks: check vehicles, shut windows, lock doors and check outbuildings.
Detective Chief Supt Andy Smith said: “I am committed to making Suffolk a hostile place for criminals and am really pleased that following a recent inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary that we were graded ‘good’ at preventing crime.
“I am particularly pleased to see that burglaries have significantly fallen over recent years. The prevention of burglary, and conviction of burglars, has always been a priority for the constabulary recognising the devastating impact of this crime on victims. For this reason, we have always attended all home burglaries and I would assure you we will continue to do so.
“We have had great success in large part as a consequence of Suffolk residents taking basic precautions to prevent their homes being burgled and of note we have caught numerous burglars now as a consequence of home-owners having invested in smart CCTV technology such as video doorbells.
“With the clocks going back at the end of October and the nights drawing in, burglars will look for opportunities to target vacated homes.
“We advise you to do the following four simple things: shut your windows, lock your doors and check your outbuildings and in terms of vehicles ensure no valuables are left on display.
“Motion activated CCTV devices connected to your mobile phone or other digital devices are extremely effective and enable you to keep an eye on hour your home wherever you are.”
“We encourage people to photograph valuable items and to register via immobilise.com – this is a national property register and this then enables police to identify recovered property if stolen and return to rightful owners, and it is free to use.”
If you notice any suspicious activity or believe a crime to be in progress you are urged to call the police immediately on 999. If you feel that you have information about crimes being committed you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
A large amount of advice and guidance on home and rural security can be found on our website: http://www.suffolk.police.uk/advice/crime-prevention-z
The clocks go back one hour this weekend at 2am on Sunday 30th October.