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SECURITY CHECKLIST HOW TO COPE WITH DOORSTEP SALESMEN AUTOCRIME VIOLENT CRIME
(with thanks to Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch)
The public are at greatest risk from crimes such as burglary, auto crime, street crime and vandalism. These can be reduced by a really effective Neighbourhood Watch. Sooner or later, this effectiveness has to be put to the test.
The first role is to observe calmly and discreetly. The very existence of Neighbourhood Watch in your area will act as a deterrent to many criminal types. But where someone is acting suspiciously, it is NOT the intention that members themselves attempt to scare off the suspect in order to prevent the crime. Remaining calm and discreet gives you the best possible chances of registering and reporting to police what you have seen quickly and accurately.
The fact that many of the calls made on the police by members will turn out to be false alarms, does not matter. The important thing, as we have said, is that the information supplied is reasonably accurate.
There are of course, some situations which are more urgent than others where a 999 emergency call is essential.
Where the circumstances are less critical, the information should be passed on to your local police station by telephoning 0845 60 70 999. If there is any doubt, treat the matter as serious and dial 999.
HELP AND ADVICE FOR MEMBERS
Your street Co-ordinator is the first person to ask if you are doing things properly. He or she may also provide you with the latest crime information through regular newsletters - and generally keep in touch with the affairs of the group.
Your officer on the beat is always ready to have a word with you about anything of general concern to your immediate vicinity. He or she will also attend to your regular group meetings -discuss crime prevention matters and give further advice.
HELP THE POLICE TO HELP YOU
The Police need your help in beating the criminal. They cannot do their job properly without it. You can help best by reporting at once anything that strikes you as suspicious. If you saw someone being attacked or robbed you would naturally phone the police. Ring them just the same if you see someone lurking around your neighbour's house or trying car doors. The police won't mind if it is a false alarm; they would much rather take no chances.
And ring at once - seconds count.
What you should do
Dial 999. Ask for the police and tell them as much as you can:
1. Where the incident happened.
2. The number of people involved.
3. Description of the suspects.
4. Description of the scene.
5. Registration numbers of any vehicles involved.
6. Your name and address will help but they are not essential.
For a Neighbourhood Watch to remain successful all members should ensure that their property complies with a basic security that ALL homes should have, whether or not they are part of a Neighbourhood Watch. All external doors and ground floor windows must have proper locks suitable for the type of frame. Any other window or point of entry which are accessible, such as those above flat roofs, should also be secure. During the Summer months many of us like windows left open most of the time. Remember this when buying locks so that the window can be locked in the open position. All locks should be secured with screws of an adequate length to prevent them being levered off
External doors, in addition to having a good quality deadlock, must have a door chain and should have a door viewer if the glass in the door does not allow the occupant to see who is calling. Hinge bolts give added reinforcement. If thieves have to break glass to gain entry then they are restricted in what they can take away if they have to exit in the same way. Keys allow them to open doors and walk away with everything. Keep keys out of door locks, out of sight.
Lighting is also very important both inside your house and out. It is essential that you give the impression that someone is at home. Table lamps can have timeswitches plugged in and left on permanently so that, for whatever reason you do not switch your lights on at dusk, they are still activated automatically. Similarly, an exterior bulkhead lamp should give lighting to that vulnerable area to the side and the rear of your property to prevent anyone skulking there. Not only is it a deterrent but it also adds to your personal safety in that you can see outside during the hours of darkness before opening the door.
Property marking also deters the opportunist thief as it makes the stolen article very difficult to sell and easy to identify. The leaflet you were given at the outset, shows different ways of marking. The easiest and perhaps the most effective is the use of an invisible security marker pen. The marking lasts about two years before needing to be done again and gives the thief the headache of not knowing where the mark is. All your valuables can be marked in this way in about half an hour and a pen cost about £2-50p
Very often, even with all the above security equipment, householders still fall foul to confidence tricksters by being gullible and failing to check out strangers before opening the door. These people prey on the elderly and infirm knowing they cannot physically resist. Hopefully, Neighbourhood Watch, with its regular bulletins and crime related literature, creates a more wary approach which helps to prevent this type of nasty crime.
Remember, many of your valuable possessions could have a sentimental value far above a monetary one and can never be replaced.
You have now, (hopefully) - had delivery of your Neighbourhood Watch literature and possibly read the leaflet on property marking.
The Metropolitan Police are, currently, storing millions of pounds worth of property which, because it is not marked, is almost impossible to restore to the owners. If your property is marked with your post code and your house number then you stand a much better chance of it being restored to you if it is lost or stolen. All property that comes into the hands of the Police is searched for any identifying marks or clues as to the owner.
If you have any property that is likely to be stolen, then it is worth marking it with your postcode and house number. Take a look round your home, shed or garage. It won't take long to do the lot. Don't forget, the Police can help with the marking of pedal cycles. Don't forget that for items that cannot be marked, such as antiques, valuable soft toys etc., photographs should be taken to aid identification. A list of serial numbers is also useful, as the police may ask for these if you report a theft.
PROPERTY MARKING
Many of you by now have undertaken property marking. This has proved to be a valuable deterrent against crime. No thief wants property that is so easily identifiable that it is just too hot for him to handle. In addition, if marked property is recovered by police it can quickly be identified and restored to the owner. For those of you who have not yet carried this out, it is a simple and inexpensive operation and can generally be completed in a short space of time. For those who already benefit from property marking, remember to mark recently purchased items and some Christmas presents will need your attention too. Many Neighbourhood Watch groups now have access to property marking kits containing a range of marking products. Your local Crime Prevention Officers are also available to offer advice on all aspect of property marking and, indeed, is available to offer free advice on any matter connected with crime prevention.
DON'T FORGET TO DISPLAY THE' PROPERTY MARKED' STICKER SO THAT ANYONE WHO MIGHT BE CONTEMPLATING THEFT WILL THINK AGAIN.
ARE YOU INVITING CRIME?
Check out your home - check locks of ground floor doors and windows, especially at the rear. Check that upstairs window overlooking flat roofs have locks. It is also important to ensure that your patio doors have effective locks and that they cannot be lifted off their runners by a garden spade. Make sure your shed and garage are locked when you are out and don't leave the burglar with a ready assortment of implements to break in. If the rear of your house is secluded then you should consider trimming back some of the surrounding greenery so that the villain stands a chance of being seen.
OR
PUT IT ON THE SLATE?
OR
BEWARE OF ROOF REPAIR AND DRIVE SURFACING CON-MEN
It has now become clear that there are more groups of con-men trying their luck in the vicinity. A common approach is for someone to knock at your door and say to you:
"I'm doing other work in the area and I noticed that your roof (or drive) needed attention."
THAT MOMENT IS THE TlME FOR YOU TO SAY 'NO THANK YOU - I DO NOT WANT ANYTHING DONE'.
Do not even let them do a free inspection of your roof - they will probably only be intent on removing a tile or doing some other damage which will have to be repaired.
Our advice is for residents to get these people off their premises as soon as possible and to let the Police have a description of them and any vehicle they may be using. This way we might be able to help protect others in future.
When at home, ask all unfamiliar callers for some identification and check their credentials if possible.
Fit a door chain and viewer so that you can see who is outside before opening the door.
Beware of builders calling and offering their unsolicited services for some repair or maintenance they say is needed to your property. There is no guarantee that the work needs doing and certainly there is no guarantee afterwards. The elderly are often charged exorbitant sums for little or no work. Get a reputable builder to check if you are told that such things as ridge tiles, chimney flashing and roof slates are loose.
SECURING YOUR HOME
Is your home attractive to the opportunist thief? All householders within Neighbourhood Watch areas should have reasonable basic security. Advice is freely available from your Community Officer and Crime Prevention Officers. You should also remember to use security already installed. It is easy to relax that security by thinking that we are only going to be "one minute". That minute is all the opportunist thief needs. Neighbours and friends can be called upon to keep an eye on your home while you are away, by clearing letter boxes, mowing the front lawn and generally giving the appearance of the house being occupied.
STICKER FADE HOW'S YOUR STICKER?
Has your sticker disappeared or become faded? If so, contact your street or area co-ordinator for a new one.
The sticker indicates that you are security minded, your property is identifiable and you are alert to the need to keep an eye on neighbour's property.
This brings us onto unwarranted and bogus callers at the door. NEVER open the door to any person unknown to you, no matter how friendly they appear. ALWAYS use your telescopic door viewer and then your door chain. Identification of an unknown caller is vital before letting them enter. If you are in any doubt at all then do not open the door.
WATCH OUT FOR THE DOORSTEP CONMEN
CONFIDENCE tricksters, maybe known more commonly as conmen, come in all shapes and sizes - male and female, young and old.
Their objective is to steal from unsuspecting persons, particularly the elderly.
This offence, known to the police as burglary artifice, and is still much too prevalent.
You must remain on your guard to ensure that complacency is not allowed to creep in.
Some of the methods used by young people to gain entry to your home include asking to use the toilet, for a glass of water, or to look for a dog or ball in the back garden.
Adult confidence tricksters may claim to represent Social Services, the Council, or the gas, water or electricity boards.
They trick their way in to steal such things as cash, jewellery, pension and benefit books, cheque books and cards and savings books.
We ask that you take these simple precautions to defeat the confidence trickster:
ALWAYS answer the door with the chain in place;
NEVER invite anyone in without an appointment;
NEVER keep large sums of money in the house;
ALWAYS check the identity of service industry callers by asking for your account number;
ALWAYS deal with reputable tradesmen and never part with money on the promise of work to be done.
WHEN IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT AND CALL THE POLICE
An Englishman's home may be his castle, but does he take the trouble to defend it? Nine out of ten break-ins are through insecure doors and windows. You don't have to live in a fortress to deter thieves - just take a few precautions.
What you have to do to make and keep your home safe? Take direct action now to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of burglary! Use this checklist.
* When you go out, secure all windows in the house. Thieves can gain access through the smallest window.
* Never leave windows open a few inches so that pets can get in and out, Burglars find this useful too.
* Windows near flat roofs are particularly vulnerable. Never leave lavatory windows open when you are out. They are often close to drainpipes which allow thieves to climb up. Consider using anti-climb paint.
* Fit good locks to all accessible windows.
* Never leave your door key under the mat, flower pot or hanging on a string behind the letterbox. Thieves always look in these places first.
* Make sure the inside latch of your front door can't be opened through the letterbox - fit a deadlock to the door
* Remember thieves have to get in and out. If your back door locks with a key, remove the key and use the door bolts.
* Keep your shed, garage and external stores locked. Tools are valuable and can be used to gain access.
* Never leave ladders lying about - clamp or padlock them to something secure.
* Leave a light on and illuminate dark areas around your house - burglars don't like lights
* Make sure that your house and contents are adequately insured.
GARAGES AND GARDEN SHEDS
In many cases burglars use tools and garden implements from sheds and garages to break into houses. Ensure your outbuildings are secure and that items such as ladders are unable to be utilised by the thief.
SIDE PASSAGES
Stop a thief from getting to the rear of your house where he can work undisturbed. Fit a strong, high gate with trellis above if necessary. Shared sideways can also mean shared cost and shared security.
a) MARK YOUR PROPERTY
OR
b) VALUABLE MARKING
OR
c) DETER A THIEF
PROPERTY marking is a simple way to mark all your possessions with your postcode and house number.
This deters a thief, helps in the return of stolen property, and also helps the police to achieve successful prosecutions.
Stickers indicate that the contents of your home have been property marked. If you need more advice, contact your street or area co-ordinator.
CYCLE CODING
We all know how expensive children's bicycles are. These are always a target for opportunist thieves and your sons and daughters must be constantly reminded to secure them whenever they are left unattended - even for a quick visit to the sweet shop. It is well worth coding all cycles with the postcode and house number of the owner to make then easily identifiable. This, coupled with the displayed' Cycle Coded ' sticker, is a good deterrent. Most cycle shops will code your cycle or you can make an appointment for it to be done free at your local police station.
TIPS TO BEAT THE INCREASE IN AUTOCRIME
AUTOCRIME is on the increase in this area. If you can't garage your car securely, you should always ensure that all doors, windows and the boot are locked, and that there are no personal possessions visible inside the car.
It is well worth investing in a security device to deter car thieves.
BURGLARY ARTIFICE
This is the terminology used by police to describe a burglary that has been committed by a crook commonly known as a " conman ", who preys on householders, often using the bogus official guise claiming to be from the Council, Water Board or some other organisation. Possibly the caller may offer to purchase your furniture or other items, posing as a dealer, or even posing as a workman to check something or to make urgent repairs. All these people have one thing in common - to gain access to your home and steal.
HOW TO CHECK YOUR CALLER CRAWLEY COUNCIL (telephone number)
BRITISH GAS (telephone number)
SOUTHERN WATER (telephone number)
SEEBOARD (telephone number)
HOW YOU CAN HELP YOUR COMMUNITY
"I didn't like to bother police. Besides, it's none of my business"
This time it might be another home which is broken into, but next time, it could be yours the answer is to be a good neighbour, wherever you live by keeping an eye on your neighbour's property as well as your own and reporting anything suspicious to the police. They'd prefer to be safe rather than sorry. So please - don't hesitate.
ACT NOW
Make sure you know the danger areas. Check you have the right locks and fittings. Ensure you're not telling the thief that you're not at home. Learn how to code your valuables. Help to make crime more difficult in your area.
NOTHING WORTH STEALING?
Remember - that in most cases, before a burglar enters a home he does not know what he will find to steal. He assumes you have something he wants, and, once he is inside, he will find something to make the risk of being caught worthwhile. It may be cash or jewellery, TV's or videos, home computers, cameras or antiques. These days even the contents of an average home freezer are worth a second look to a thief, especially if it is unlocked. Look around your own home - you value your possessions, the chances are the thief will as well.
SECURING YOUR HOME
To reduce the attractiveness of their homes to the opportunist thief householders can be given advice on how to improve their security. We also encourage house - holders to use security already installed - it is so easy to think that we are only going to be ' a minute ' - that one minute is all the opportunist thief needs. Neighbours and friends can be called upon to keep an eye on your home whilst you are away by pushing literature through the letterbox, cutting the grass for you and tending the flowerbeds in general.
TIME SWITCHES for lights are also a way of keeping your home secure - together with a radio playing music (but not too loudly!).
CAR OWNERS BEWARE
The trend at the moment is still theft from motor vehicles. As a result countless car owners are left standing massively out of pocket. Most car thieves succeed because we make it easy for them. If you leave your valuables or that expensive sound system on display, they will be stolen! If you leave your vehicle in the street, locking it may not suffice. If the thief spots something worth stealing then he will smash a window to get in. A car alarm is the most reliable deterrent and free advice on car alarms can be obtained from the Crime Prevention Officers at your local Police Station.
A) NEVER GIVE UP
or
B) KEEP A WATCH
Bear in mind that a Neighbourhood Watch scheme can succeed only if the interest and enthusiasm of the residents is maintained. Evidence from America suggests that this becomes more of a problem with time, or in high - crime areas, where people can easily become dispirited. But burglars never give up so neither should the rest of us.
HOW TO COPE WITH DOORSTEP SALESMEN
I feel it is important to explain the procedure people should adopt when answering the door and the security fittings required to do it properly.
FRONT DOOR SECURITY
Good quality locks should be fitted, together with a door chain, and a wide angled eye viewer if you cannot see who is outside your door before you open it.
PROCEDURE
1. Look at all callers to see if you know them, BEFORE you unlock the door.
2. Speak to strangers through the locked door and ascertain what they want.
3. If they are offering some service or goods that you do not want, say "No thank you " through the locked door. In no circumstances open the door or let them in.
4. If you think that you might have to let them in, if they claim that they are from the Gas or Electricity Board and have come to read the meter, put the chain on the door before opening it and ask to see their identification and if you are in the password scheme, ask for your personal password. If they cannot supply either, DON'T LET THEM IN.
HOLIDAY ADVICE
Knowing your house is secure and being looked after does give you peace of mind while away. It then only remains to ensure the added daily protection of a visiting friend/neighbour to ensure mail is pushed through the letter box, that nothing is left on the doorstep, lighting on timeswitches is working and that the front of your home is tidy to the casual observer. A car (immobilised) parked in the driveway adds to the belief that someone is at home.
Finally, never arrange to be collected from your home address, unless by a friend, for the start of your holidays. Use a nearby location as a pick up point and never leave your return address in open view on your suitcases. It is better to be home again from your holiday before anyone realises you have gone (except for your Keyholder of course).
SECURE YOUR DOORS
Doors have two security purposes. They stop intruders getting in and getting out. A thief’s first job after breaking in is to unlock a final exit door. This is for two reasons; first if he's disturbed he needs a rapid exit and, second, he needs an exit big enough to allow him to remove bulky items.
The strength of a door arid its frame is the first thing to look at. Any lock will only be as strong as the door and the frame in which it is fitted. You should take account of the type of door before deciding on the choice of lock. If you are unsure, seek the advice of your local Crime Prevention Officer.
SECURING WINDOWS
61% of burglars use windows as their point of entry. All windows have glass in common.
Think about it, if you mislay your key how would YOU gain entry to your own home? A thief would do the same even at your house. But, if he sees a window lock, more often than not he'll go away and try elsewhere.
Securing your windows is a simple and inexpensive job and should be treated as a priority. There are many types of locks available to suit different types of windows. Laminated glass makes entry more difficult but professional advice should be sought before installing as windows provide a means of emergency exit.
PERIMETER FENCING, HEDGES GATES ETC
Suitable fencing, which need not be expensive, can be uses to do two things -
(a) prevent the entry of children and stray dogs and
(b) define the territory of the householder. (Anyone seen within this area, by neighbours, is therefore " suspect '.)
The danger zone is between the heights of 3ft. and 7ft. All shrubs and hedges should be trimmed within that height zone to improve visibility. Fences can be heightened by the addition of trellis and all perimeter fences can be supplemented with prickly leafed or thorned bushes behind them. E.g. roses, holly, pyracanthus, hawthorne etc.
Side gates of houses should be level with the front building line and have trellis fixed above them.
DOOR SECURITY
Front doors (or final exit doors) should be secured by means of a lock to BS3621 (look for the kite mark) either mortice or rim lock. When the door is solid and about two inches thick then a mortice lock can be installed. Ideally, two locks (keyed alike) should be fitted, each one situated a third from the top and the bottom of the door. On the hinge side can be fitted hinge bolts which are fit and forget' items. However, if a spring latch is already fitted, then this should be enhanced with a mortice lock. All doors should be fitted with a door chain and viewer, the viewer being preferably of the telescopic type for wide vision.
Rear and kitchen doors - these generally have poorer locks and if the occupier does not wish to upgrade to a B.S. type lock then he should be advised to fit a B.S. box striker. If the door can be locked from the inside then locking bolts (either rack or surface locking bolts) should also be fitted.
Internal doors which have locks fitted should only be used at night when the occupier is at home. It s not wise to lock furniture unless you have to. Additionally, phone extensions should be taken upstairs at night.
WINDOWS
All ground floor windows and any first floor accessible windows should be fitted with a key operated window lock. If possible, all the locks should be opened by the same key. STAYLOCKS are only suitable for nursery windows to afford child safety. These windows should also have a proper window lock.
KNOCK, KNOCK,
Who's There?
The doorbell rings. An elderly lady goes to the door. She opens the door. He's come to read the meter. He overpowers her and robs her of her pension. She is badly injured and greatly distressed."
A common enough story on the news or in the papers. So common it almost escapes our attention. But it does happen - and not just to old ladies. Everyone is at risk - it's a common way of gaining entry. Even if the intruder is not violent he could be sizing up your house for a return, at a later date.
There are simple ways of avoiding it happening to you or your family and stopping criminals getting inside knowledge.
Remember these simple points: -
BEFORE you open the door, check the caller out. Open the door on the chain or use the viewer.
Check again - if you don't know them, ask to see an identity card. Be sure to check it carefully, genuine callers won't mind.
Confirm the reason for the call. If you aren't sure ask them to call again and, in the meantime, ring the organisation or company the caller claims to represent. Don't let him or her pressure you.
If you are still unsure or suspicious PHONE THE POLICE. Tell them exactly what happened and try to give them a description of the caller.
BE SAFE RATHER THAN SORRY. DON'T LET STRANGERS INTO YOUR HOME!
One of the most expensive purchases made by the average family (other than the house) is the car, yet amazingly people don't always ensure the vehicle is adequately protected against theft. Some people give an open invitation to the thief by leaving the keys in the ignition and the doors unlocked or even leaving the engine running whilst absent from the vehicle" for a short while".
Autocrime is considered a serious problem by the Police and one which we they are always trying to combat. You can make their task easier if you follow some advice: -
WHEN YOU LEAVE IT, LOCK IT A thief is at his most vulnerable when he is trying to break into a car.
FIT A SECURITY DEVICE One that cuts out the ignition or the fuel or better still, fit an alarm REMOVE OR CONCEAL VALUABLES If you carry valuables in the car, lock them in the boot. Try and conceal that expensive stereo system.
HAVE THE WINDOWS ETCHED The registration number etched into the windows wilt make it both expensive and difficult for the thief to change the identity of your car.
REMOVE DRIVING DOCUMENTS Don't leave your registration document, driving licence or insurance documents in the vehicle. They can provide the thief with visible "proof" of ownership.
If you were to become the victim of a car thief, how well do you know your own car? Do you know the Vehicle identification Number? Can you supply details of the radio/cassette serial number or of any of the accessories you may have fitted? Can you remember any dents or scratches, obvious signs of repair or perhaps the fitting of a new bumper or wing? These are the clues that will help you identify your vehicle if an attempt has been made to change its appearance. Try to deliberately mark your car in some way, a card tucked into the door panel or roof lining or a deep scratch or paint mark inside the vehicle out of sight which only you know about.
THINK IS YOUR CAR STILL WHERE YOU LEFT IT?
CONTACTING THE POLICE
The Police are often asked by members for the best number to contact when they feel a crime is being committed. The Police advice is think.....is it an emergency? If you are in any doubt, dial 999. Then false alarm or not you have done the right thing. Remember. . . Stay where you are. . . . Continue to Watch. . . . Remain calm & do not approach suspicious people.
Never ring your local Police station in an emergency, the switchboards are not designed to cope. So for a speedier response DIAL 999
PROTECTING OUR VEHICLES
Vehicle crime is one of the most prevalent crimes in our area at this time. It usually involves the theft of any property of value which is left within view in the vehicle. All valuables should preferably be taken out of the vehicle or locked in the boot. Temptation is not then placed before the opportunist thief
Many vehicles are subjected to serious damage both during and after entering the vehicle when thieves are intent on stealing the radio or radio cassette and speakers. The obvious, but expensive, answer is the fitting of a car alarm. The cost of these varies considerably but could still be cheaper that the bill for damage repairs. If your car is expensive or it is your' pride and joy 'then an alarm is a must. The most vulnerable time for these thefts is during the hours of darkness and usually when we are asleep. Therefore, if you have a garage, use it. If not, then try to ensure it is parked either on a well lit driveway or forecourt or under a street lamp.
If you fit a radio in your car make sure it is property marked to make it identifiable. If it is stolen it makes the thief vulnerable and the item hard to sell. A' Property Marked' sticker placed on the car window should prevent most ' casual ' attempts.
VIOLENT CRIME is unfortunately only too common nowadays, and women have increasingly become victims of personal attack. Do not assist the criminal by affording him the opportunity to steal or injure. Some simple common-sense precautions can reduce the risk of you becoming a victim.
When out alone always be alert. Avoid shortcuts and dark deserted areas. Walk near the kerb and away from bushes and buildings. Personal attack alarms are a useful deterrent, this type of alarm emits a loud shrill noise and can easily be carried in the hand.
Attacks on women vary in type and degree of seriousness. Perhaps the most common is being pushed up against in a crowd, or whilst travelling on a crowded bus or train. If this ever happens, do not hesitate to embarrass your attacker. A LOUD" Do you mind? "will work wonders.
Also, you may suffer from the inadequate creature who indecently exposes himself to women. Do not forget Police need to be told of such incidents so they too are aware.
Finally, never take unnecessary risks at home. Make sure your house or flat is secure by fitting and using good quality locks. Do not invite or let strangers in to your home, make use of a door viewer and never open the door without using the chain. Keep your curtains closed after dark. By following these suggestions you will greatly reduce the possibility of becoming a victim.
The protection of this type of property and its residents is quite different to the ordinary semidetached house.
The main entrance and its appearance is the main deciding factor on whether or not criminals will make an attempt. Lighting for communal entrances, halls and stairs must remain on during the hours of darkness and should be checked frequently. This leaves no place for prowlers to hide.
The entry phone is an ideal method of checking all callers but it does mean that all residents should be security minded at all times otherwise the system is useless. Just one thoughtless action by an occupier can render every flat vulnerable. Holding the main doors open for strangers, without questioning their reasons for visiting, could also affect your personal safety in addition to that of the other residents.
Once entry is gained to a block of flats the thieves are out of sight from the street and have a number of doors to choose from. It is, therefore, important that the entrance doors of each flat are of exterior quality with mortise deadlocks and door hinge bolts. Door chains and viewers are essential and the chain should be used on ALL occasions until the identity of the caller is ascertained.
Although the ground floor windows are most vulnerable and should all have window locks it must be remembered that first floor windows are also vulnerable, and can be reached by ladders and should also be protected.
Fire escapes and fire exit doors should always be capable of opening quickly from inside, but must never be left open or able to be opened from the outside.
If you have property marked all the valuables in your home then it would help to display a 'Property Marked' sticker on your door. This shows that you are aware and are taking crime prevention measures. These can be obtained from all police stations.
GOOD HABITS
OR
HABITUALLY AWARE!
1. Lock goods away in the boot of the car.
2. Keep keys in your pocket and not in your bag.
3. Don't put your purse on top of your shopping.
4. Don't carry your wallet in your back pocket.
5. Don't wear expensive jewellery or gold chains around the neck.
6. Don't carry large amounts of cash.
7. Keep cheque cards and cheque books separate.
AT HOME
1. Beware of bogus callers at the door.
2. Check the security of your windows and doors.
3. Fit time switches to put lights on when it gets dark.
4. Lock or padlock your side or rear gate.
5. If you are going away for Christmas ask someone to keep an eye on your home and inform your neighbours and Police.
It is often difficult to think of a suitable present at Christmas. Have you considered a security gift? How about a car alarm, steering lock, locking wheel nuts, locking petrol cap, window etching, personal alarm, a key operated safe place for valuables or a property marking kit.
Remember your Crime Prevention Officer can visit you to give a free security survey.
PROPERTY MARKING
Many of you will have now undertaken property marking. This is proving to be a valuable deterrent against crime. A thief does not want property that is so easily identifiable as it just too hot for him to handle. In addition, if marked property is recovered by police it can quickly be identified and restored to the owner. For those of you who have not yet carried this out, it is a simple and inexpensive operation and can generally be completed in a short space of time. For those who already benefit from property marking, remember to mark recently purchased items, and some Christmas presents will need your attention too. Many Neighbourhood Watch groups now have access to property marking kits containing a range of marking products. Your local Crime Prevention Officer is also able to offer free advice on all aspects of property marking and, indeed, is available to offer free advice on any matter connected with crime prevention.
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
Unfortunately, Christmas brings out the thieves. With the approach of Christmas and the shopping areas becoming even more crowded than usual the likelihood of handbags being snatched or "lifted" and pockets being picked increases. Do not leave handbags or purses on the top of shopping baskets, even momentarily, when you are in busy shopping areas and be especially careful when boarding a bus at a crowded bus stop. When you all push forward on the bus is the favourite time for the pick-pocket who often works with an accomplice whose job it is to slow the queue down. Do not leave Christmas presents on view on the seats of your car - put them in the boot. From time to time, householders have callers selling small household items who claim that part of the proceeds will go to charity. If challenged, the seller often produces a pedlar's licence. If it is claimed that any part of the proceeds will go to charity, then the seller should carry a certificate and a badge under the "House to House Collections Act 1939". If they do not, they should be told they are breaking the law and the police informed.
When you leave the car take care where you park it. The more people who can see your car the better. A thief is generally shy and does not like to be seen at work. A few seconds making sure that all windows are closed and doors locked is time well spent. Why not treat yourself to an early Christmas present of a car alarm or an immobiliser for added security? Incidentally, presents left on view inside a car can be very attractive to a thief Try to complete shopping in one go so that presents do not have to be left in the car, but if this is not possible lock them in the boot or at least hide them from view.
If you have an opportunity, go shopping with a friend, not only is it more fun but it can also be safer. We have already spoken about cash being a thief's best friend. He does not mind if he takes it from your house or from you and will be very grateful if you make it easy for him. Christmas shopping crowds are ideal for him to pick some of your hard earned cash with very little effort. Make life difficult for a thief and carry handbags securely and wallets in a safe place. The more cash you carry, the better he likes it, but remember that cheque books and cards should be kept separately.
SEASON OF GOODWILL.
Most people become careless over the Christmas period because of the sheer amount of items they purchase, NEVER leave ready wrapped presents or boxes in open view either at home or, in particular, in your car. This is an open invitation to the hovering opportunist thief and also a temptation to those who would not normally contemplate theft.
Burglaries, in the last few days before Christmas, can be devastating. Presents are the main objective but the turkey and ham have also been known to go well. Usually it is too late to replace the goods and Christmas is spoiled. Keep your house, particularly the back door, secure.
The large number of free local papers in addition to your daily and local paper, means an increase of your newspaper delivery boys calling for their Xmas box. These youngsters work hard all year so please ensure it is they you reward and not some enterprising young 'con' merchant. All of your delivery boys have been warned to carry identification.
Finally, don't forget to 'property mark' those expensive gifts and other purchases.
It is often difficult to think of a suitable present for Christmas. Have you considered a security gift? How about a car alarm, steering lock, locking wheel nuts, locking petrol cap, window etching, personal alarm, a key operated safe for valuables or a property marking kit.
a) REMINDER OR
b) FINALLY
It must be remembered whatever type of security is employed, it is only part of our overall defence against the criminal.
Vigilance, awareness and neighbourly co-operation are important elements in the security of our homes.
END