Don’t give burglars an easy time in the run up to Christmas

THAMES Valley Police is asking members of the public to be vigilant in the run-up to Christmas, as there is often an increase in burglaries at this time of year.

The police want residents to think about what security they have in place, and what more they can do to deter burglars.

In recent months there has been a national increase in burglaries and break-ins with a 25 per cent rise in burglaries across the Thames Valley in the last six months.

Thames Valley Police stated today: “We have dedicated resources in place to disrupt and investigate burglaries, and bring offenders to justice. Officers in our Neighbourhood Policing Teams are also working to offer advice to residents and also disrupt burglars.

“On Wednesday (6/12) we will be holding a live webchat to offer the public advice on how to keep their homes safe. LINK HERE to join in.  This week too we have launched an online advent calendar with good advice on how to stay safe over the next month.

People can visit the Thames Valley Police’s Facebook page and TVP Twitter pages every day for advice which includes how to ensure your home is properly protected, how to plan your journey home after a night out, the consequences of drink driving and what to do if you are experiencing domestic abuse.

There is further information on how to protect your home on the Thames Valley Police website.

Detective Chief Superintendent Richard List, said: “We are only too aware of the serious impact that having your home broken into has on people in the Thames Valley. It is traumatic both psychologically and financially.

“Over recent months, like other forces across the country, we have been seeing an increase in burglaries. There are a number of reasons for this increase but it’s important that we all do everything we possibly can to prevent burglaries being committed in the first place.

“We are taking every action possible to tackle this by bringing offenders to justice, and also disrupting those who see fit to carry out these crimes.

“We would ask the public to think about what measures they can take to secure their homes.

“This could include securing doors and windows, having lights on timers and also not advertising on social media if you are going away for a holiday. My taking just a few simple measures, particularly at this time of year, you can significantly reduce your risk of being a victim of burglary.

“Additionally, we would ask members of the community to be vigilant and keep an eye on their neighbours’ properties if they are unoccupied and report any suspicious behaviour by calling 101 or speaking to one of the neighbourhood policing teams.”