Crawley Neighbourhood Watch

DON’T HELP THIEVES TO HELP THEMSELVES

With the approach of milder spring weather many people are now thinking about their gardens, but have you thought about the security of your garden, garage and shed ? The value of property stored in gardens, sheds and garages is often much more than you may imagine.

Lawnmowers, power tools, ornaments, sports equipment, cycles and toys are amongst those items most often taken by thieves.

P.C. Alan HAFFENDEN, a local Crime Prevention Officer says "Most burglaries occur at the rear of premises, burglars are lazy and are looking for easy ways to get into a house or garden. They will often use tools from sheds or garages to break into a house."

• Securely lock away tools and ladders.

• Consider movement operated lights at the front and back.

Identifiable security marked property can deter burglars because it is harder for a thief to sell and can help the Police to return it if found.

• Uniquely security mark your property with your postcode followed by house number or first two letters of your house name.

• Engrave or etch wherever possible, if not, use an ultra violet marker pen.

Secure your garden

• Lock side and rear gates.

• Consider prickly planting to provide nature’s own barrier to stop intruders, but keep it pruned to prevent concealment.

Further advice is contained in the Sussex Police leaflet "How Safe Is Your Garden?" available from Crawley garden centres and from Crawley Police Station.

Why not join Neighbourhood Watch? For more details speak directly to Linda CONNOR, Crime Prevention Co-ordinator at Crawley Police Station (01293 583832).

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