Features
Stay safe and secure this summer
Improving weather and rising temperatures present criminals with warm weather opportunities. But by taking a few simple precautions, you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim of a summer crime.
Windows of opportunity
In summer, burglary rates can increase as access to properties becomes easier via open or insecure windows. Fitting and, most importantly, using good mortice locks on all doors and key-operated locks on accessible windows can make your home instantly more secure. Obvious accessible windows are those at ground level, but those above a ground floor extension or porch, or next to a drainpipe, can be just as easy to reach.
Traditional sash windows can be secured by fitting two pairs of sash stops to the upper frame. The lower pair locks the window shut, but can be removed to allow a six-inch gap for ventilation; the upper pair prevents the window being opened further. Be mindful of a criminal's ability to `fish' for nearby items via this gap though. A room with a window secured in this fashion should not be left unoccupied and items of value should never be left in view, even if the room is occupied.
Thinking outside the box
Garages and sheds can be a treasure trove for thieves, full of tools and equipment that could be used to break into the rest of the house. Keep them secure with a strong padlock. If you don't have the space to lock away ladders, chain or padlock them horizontally to a sturdy bracket. Check your gates and fences for weak spots, and fit a strong, lockable, high gate across a side passage to stop a thief getting round to the back of the house. A thick or thorny hedge could act as a deterrent, but make sure that the front of your house is visible to passers-by so that a burglar can't work unseen.
When parking your motor vehicles, never leave valuables, including sunglasses, on display. Even hints that there may be something valuable in your car, like a jacket on the back seat or floor of the car, can give rise to an attempt. Whilst driving in slow summer holiday traffic, remember handbags, phones etc, on seats could be grabbed through an open window. Cycle crime increases in summer simply because more people use their bikes. Unattended bicycles should always be locked to something solid. Get your bike security marked if you can, and don't forget about those expensive bike accessories; take them with you if you are leaving your bike to grab some lunch.
Peace of mind on holiday
Always tell a family member, local friend or trusted neighbour when you plan to go on holiday. Give them your contact details and ask them to keep an eye on your house (but be prepared to return the favour). Cancel delivery of milk or newspapers, and ask the person keeping an eye on your property to collect the mail and put it out of sight of prying eyes. Or you can use The Royal Mail's Keepsafe service (see www.royalmail.com), which will keep your mail for you while away.
Security timer switches are a great idea for holiday security. You could also invest in a remote phone switcher, which allows you to dial in to your home telephone and instruct the unit to activate whatever appliance is plugged into it. Before you go, ensure that valuable equipment is placed out of sight and check your window security measures (as above). Try not to discuss holiday plans in public places where strangers may hear details, and never put your full home address on your luggage when you are travelling.
Woking Borough Neighbourhood Inspector, Lynette Shanks, said: "Returning from holiday to find that your home had been broken into is a terrible event to experience. By following some simple advice you can make your home more secure while you are away - and when you're holidaying at home."
Further crime prevention advice is available from Surrey Police.
