Darker Nights - Home Security Advice

11 November 2011

With the winter months and darker nights upon us, West Midlands Police are encouraging residents to think about their home security.

Opportunistic burglars usually target homes that they believe to be empty or insecure. By following the simple home security tips below, you could deter burglars from targeting your property.

Simple tips include:

• Consider purchasing a timer switch for lights. You can then set these to come on and light up your house even if you are out. Timer switches are inexpensive and ensure empty homes are not left in darkness.
• Always lock your doors and windows. Ensure that back doors are locked as well as any gates or access ways.
• Cancel newspapers and milk deliveries if you are away from your home for a few days.
• Keep any sheds, outhouses and garages locked - your tools could be used by criminals to enter your home.
• Neighbourhood Watch is an effective way to keep your home and community safe. You can find details of how to join or set up a scheme from the partnerships officer at your local police station.

Sergeant Andy Gregory said: "Many people will now be returning home from work in the dark and often forget to leave a light on, making it obvious to a potential burglar that the property is probably unoccupied. Homeowners should consider investing in time switches, windows should always closed and locked and, where available, house alarms set.

"Traditionally the number of burglary offences rises in the winter and we want residents to think about how they can help themselves by taking a few simple measures."

For further advice about keeping your property secure, see the force's website: www.safer-homes.org

The burglary initiative comes at a time when West Midlands Police is showing a large reduction in house burglary. Over the last six months there have been 2,300 fewer victims of house break-ins (down 24 per cent) compared to the same period last year.

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