Turning back the clocks for tighter security

Turning back the clocks for tighter security

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Did you know we have been turning back our clocks for 100 years now?

Greater Manchester Police wants to remind people that even though we have now been turning back the clock for one hundred years, some of us forget the need for tighter security during darker nights.

One in three burglaries still happen to homes that are insecure and burglars are known to target homes that appear unoccupied. GMP is encouraging people to follow three simple security measures to step up their winter security.

These steps are alarm, locks, lights:

• If you have one, don’t forget to set your house alarm
• Lock all your doors and windows
• Leave a light on – use a light timer when you’re out

As darker nights are imminent, GMP wants to encourage people to take a look at their home security and make sure it’s up to date.

Other security measures people should consider are:

• Keep your valuables out of sight
• Move keys out of view and don’t leave them in easy reach - in the door or near windows
• Register your valuables on immobilise.com. This increases the chance of them being returned if they are stolen
• Keep bins away from windows when they’re not being used as they can be used as a climbing aid for burglars

Residents are also encouraged to set up a Home Watch Scheme in their area. The Home Watch Scheme is a way of bringing residents together to help keep their communities safe. It gives people the opportunity to highlight and tackle issues in the area, helps them feel part of the wider community and feel safer as they are looking out for each other. Visit www.gmp.police.uk for more information.

Chief Superintendent Chris Sykes said: “It is important that people take a close look at their home security at this time of year, it’s easy to become blasé, but we mustn’t. Burglars do target dark, empty looking properties and just a few easy steps could mean yours is not one of them.

“Burglary is very traumatic, not only does it mean a person’s prized possessions are gone but the thought of someone having been in their home, rummaging through their things really leaves people feeling vulnerable, and takes time to get over. Remember alarm, locks and lights.”

Police officers will be sharing the attached postcard which reminds people of the three easy steps they can take to keep their homes safe.