Isle households are being urged to protect their homes and property as police anticipate a rise in summertime burglaries.
Officers are currently investigating a number of burglaries and are reminding everyone to keep their homes safe from would-be offenders.
on Friday May 18 in Northdown Road, Margate a house was burgled between 11pm on Sunday 20 May and 11am on Tuesday 22 May.
Electrical items including a games console and television have been reported stolen along with cash after the back door was left open.
Assistant Chief Constable Jo Shiner said: ‘We don’t want Kent residents to feel afraid, however, it is important that they realise the risks and work together to crack down on the criminals.
‘Many people open doors and windows to keep themselves cool when temperatures are high but they need to know it does make it easier for opportunistic thieves to strike when backs are turned.
‘When you leave the house or go upstairs for any length of time, it is important you make sure your windows and doors are shut and locked because anyone who has fallen victim to a burglary will know how upsetting and difficult it can be to come to terms with. Some things are simply irreplaceable and crimes like this can have a lasting impact on victims.’
ACC Shiner added: ‘Our experience tells us that offenders who unwittingly set off an alarm invariably run away empty-handed.
‘Some burglars will work in teams and use distraction techniques like knocking on your front door whilst someone else goes around the back. Be sure to secure your property before you answer the door to someone you don’t know and never let anyone in without ID. Don’t be afraid to say no.
“As always, if you have items of high value, don’t keep them on display as burglars are less likely to enter your home if he or she can’t see anything worth stealing. And if you are going away on holiday, despite the temptation, don’t advertise it on social media until you’re back home.
‘Historically we see increases of burglary during the summer and that’s why it’s important people think about crime prevention.
“Police Community Support Officers also play a key role in providing a visible presence and many arrange public engagement meetings to provide crime prevention advice and information as part of their duties.
“Unfortunately there will always be a minority who will break the law in order to earn themselves some extra cash. So, whether it’s your house, business, flat, car or shed, keep it secure at all times and take away the temptation for thieves.”
Safety advice
– Lock your doors and windows at night and during the day when you’re not in the vicinity (even if you are just popping upstairs for something)
– Lock your back doors and windows when you answer the front door. Some burglars use distraction techniques.
– Consider fitting extra security measures such as spy holes, door chains, door locks and intruder alarms.
– Install your own CCTV covering the front and back of your property.
– Mark your valuables and register them online at www.immobilse.com so we can return any recovered items.
– Keep receipts and serial numbers safe.
– Photograph and insure expensive or unique items.
– Don’t keep valuables on display, consider installing a safe that could be bolted to the ground or wall. Or use a safety deposit box at your bank.
– Use timer switches on lights and radios to make your home look occupied.
– Keep gates, boundaries and sheds secure.
– Lock away bikes, tools and garden items that could be taken or used to break into your home.
– Don’t leave spare keys hidden outside under pots or in garages.
– Think before posting holiday pictures on social media as it can make burglars aware the house is empty.
– Keep gardens tidy and pruned to remove good hiding places for burglars and install security lights.
– Cancel milk or paper deliveries when you’re away and make sure your grass is cut, these are some things that won’t make your home stand out.
