Burglary Prevention Campaign 2024
Cleveland Police is launching a campaign as the darker nights draw in, highlighting crime prevention tips which people could use to help deter opportunist burglars.
Over the last six months there have been over 1,500 reported residential burglaries across Cleveland.
Cleveland Police are determined to stop more people from becoming victims of burglary.
There are also steps that you can take which may help prevent your home from being targeted by burglars.
Please read below:
- Keep your home visible – lowering fences to leave a clear view over the top and planting prickly or barbed shrubbery along boundaries and fence lines acts as an effective natural barrier.
- Gravel driveways and paths ensure you hear anyone approaching.
- Ensure windows and doors are secure. A third of burglaries are committed through insecure doors or windows.
- CCTV can be a valuable tool – linked to a smartphone can alert you to someone crossing your boundary.
- Place signage up warning that CCTV is in use.
- Consider an accredited burglar alarm system with audible alarm boxes mounted high at the front and rear of your home.
- Lighting is a good deterrent and is recommended at doors as it makes it safer when coming and going after dark.
- Use an automatic plug-in timer switch to operate internal lighting; a lamp or light at pre-set times when you’re getting home late or are away is a good idea to make it look like you’re at home.
- Remember, if anyone attends your home unannounced and asks to come in, always ask for ID and check it with the company before letting someone into your home.
Further advice or door and window locks can be found here: Protecting your home from crime