Residents can make their homes more secure by following some basic crime prevention advice such as:
- Lock all doors and windows, and ensure any PVCu doors are locked properly by lifting the handle and using the key to double-lock them
- Consider installing a door bell camera, internal camera and/or monitored burglar alarm.
- Install ‘dusk to dawn’ external lighting and use timer switches in your home to control internal lights, radios and a simulated TV.
- Keep keys and valuables secure and out of sight.
- Ensure boundary fences are secure with side gates locked. Keep tools and ladders in a locked shed.
- Secure bins at night and put garden furniture away for the winter as these can be used by burglars as climbing aids to gain access to upper floor windows
- Ensure your vehicle is locked and remove all valuables as burglars often check to see if doors are left unlocked
- Join Hertfordshire’s Neighbourhood Watch for alerts and advice: www.owl.co.uk.
- Visit www.owlprotect.uk for discounts on security products.
- More crime prevention advice is available at www.herts.police.uk/protectyourhome and www.hertscitizensacademy.org