Police advice on protecting homes

HOUSEHOLDERS living in the Great Yarmouth borough are being urged not to make it easy for potential thieves this summer. Officers are advising people to pay extra attention to home and vehicle security with the onset of longer evenings and warmer weather.

HOUSEHOLDERS living in the Great Yarmouth borough are being urged not to make it easy for potential thieves this summer.

Officers are advising people to pay extra attention to home and vehicle security with the onset of longer evenings and warmer weather.

Det Insp Sarah Pettengell, from Yarmouth police, said lapses in security can often give rise to opportunistic crime.

She said: “By taking simple steps householders can avoid becoming a victim of crime.

“Burglaries are often opportunistic crimes so by removing attractive and expensive items from display, such as laptops and car keys, householders can help prevent these crimes from occurring. During the summer months thieves will also look for gaps in home security such as doors and windows left open.”

Residents are advised to:

Keep windows and doors locked and secure at all times, whether they are inside or outside the home.

Pay attention to the security of sheds and garages and to the property stored within as these often contain expensive items such as lawn mowers, power tools and sports equipment. Use good quality locks and fit internal grills to the windows.

Mark their belongings to make them less attractive to steal and make it more difficult for them to be sold on.

Be a good neighbour - If anyone is spotted acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, call the police.

Det Insp Pettengell added that residents should be vigilant when dealing with cold callers to their property - and not to let them inside.

Anyone behaving suspiciously should be reported to Norfolk police as soon as possible by phoning 0845 4564567.

In an emergency always dial 999. For further crime prevention advice visit www.norfolk.police.uk.