Spring Forward, Fall Back

Spring forward, fall back yes its that time again.

The clocks go back one hour at 2am on Sunday 30th October 2011, and the prospect of shorter daylight hours and long winter nights can make people worry more about crime and personal safety. As we move into winter months many people will be returning home from work, school, shopping etc to find homes in darkness and may feel more vulnerable in the dark, especially those that live alone.

Installing good lighting is an excellent way to deter a would-be thief, particularly by fitting exterior lights with dawn-to-dusk sensors. These are light sensitive and switch on automatically when it gets dark and off again when it gets light. Using low wattage bulbs means these are both a low cost and effective security measure and offers a reassuring welcome when you return home

Using timer switches inside the property. These can be linked to lighting or even a radio giving the impression that someone is at home

Closing your blinds or curtains at night. This prevents people from looking into your home and seeing what possession you have that could be worth returning for later – note: if your children are home first from school encourage them to close curtains and blinds first!!

Keeping windows and doors secure, even if you are at home. Majority of burglaries committed because someone has left window or door open.

Locking side gates. Potential burglars are less likely to try and break in from the front where they can be seen

Fitting an alarm – around 75% of burglaries on homes fitted with alarms are unsuccessful

Not leaving spare keys hidden outside for children – a burglar will always look for these first!

Marking your valuables – expensive electrical equipment can be marked with your post code and house number – garden and shed equipment can be marked with spare can of paint or even nail varnish!

Not leaving car keys near the front door or anywhere easy to find.

Ensuring all gates, external doors (including cars) are locked and secure in the evening.

Please report anything suspicious in the area to the police by phoning 101 or 0345 456 4564 or 999 if you believe there is a real threat to life or property.

(C) Stanground & Park Farm News 2011 E&OE Tel: 01733 345581 ..... ALL ENQUIRIES LOCAL NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE: 0345 4564564 OR Dial 999. If you have information about crime contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to Court. >> Broadcast Quality ISDN 01733 555319 ISDN Codecs G722 & ATX >> Media Enquiries: JULIAN BRAY 01733 345581 www.tinyurl.com/STANGROUNDPFNW