Burglaries Down In South Oxfordshire (Status: Press Release)

LATEST figures show the number of burglaries taking place in South Oxfordshire is down 30.2 per cent compared to last year, leading police to urge residents to do all they can to help them drive them down further.
So far since 1 April, 2007, there have been 192 burglaries; that compares to 275 for the same period in 2006.

Throughout November, Thames Valley Police is focussing on burglary as this time of year traditionally sees a rise in the number of burglaries.

Thieves take advantage of the clocks going back and the longer, darker evenings, and they also know people are starting to store presents in their homes in the run up to Christmas.

The police commander for South Oxfordshire, Supt Andy Murray said: ?Burglary in South Oxfordshire is down by nearly a third. This has been achieved by a combination of crime reduction initiatives and a relentless targeting of active criminals. Reductions in burglary will continue to be a priority for us.?

?These figures are really encouraging and our officers are doing all they can to clamp down on burglaries in our area.

?But neither the police nor residents can be complacent and, working together, we must do all we can beat the burglars; not just during this vulnerable period, but permanently.

Security tips for this time of year include:

? Fit five-lever deadlocks on all external doors and fit locks to the top and bottom of patio doors.

? Fit door chains or door bars to be used when strangers call.

? Install locks on all windows that are easy to reach from outside.

? Keep house and car keys well away from external doors and windows.

? Consider motion-activated external lighting – this can be a deterrent for criminals and will also enhance the personal safety of occupants.

? Trim trees, shrubs and hedges that might hide an intruder from neighbours or passers-by.

? When away from home set lamps on timer switches to come on at dusk.

If you would like specific crime prevention advice, contact your local Crime Reduction Office via 0845 8 505 505, or log on to the Thames Valley Police website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk .