Summertime… keep cool and stay safe

When the sun comes out we all open windows and doors in an effort to keep cool, but open doors and windows can be seen as an opportunity for burglars.

Shropshire remains a safe place in which to live, however there has been a recent increase in domestic burglary.  So the Safer Stronger Communities Partnership is asking people to think about keeping doors locked when they are not being used and not to leave windows, which can be easily accessed, open in unoccupied rooms.

Also, don’t leave items such as car keys visible in hallways, if the door is unlocked a burglar can take the keys and then steal your car. It’s best to put your car keys where they cannot be seen.

Finally, if you go away over the summer make sure you secure your property. You can do this by:

• Use timer switches/sensors to turn lights on in the evenings while you are out
• Mark your belongings with your postcode and house number
• If you have an alarm, set it when you leave the house
• Ensure newspapers, post, milk etc, are not left on display
• Ask a friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your home while you’re away

Councillor Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council cabinet member, said:

“We all enjoy the lighter evenings and warmer days of the summer, but it’s important to be aware of the opportunities that can present themselves to burglars.  Just by following some simple steps you can make your home safe and enjoy the summer.”

The Safer Stronger Communities Partnership is the community safety partnership for Shropshire, made up of the West Mercia Police, Shropshire Council, West Mercia Police Authority, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, Primary Care Trust and the Probation Service.