South Cumbria police urge local people to lock up as they enjoy good weather

As communities enjoy the good weather and open up their windows and doors in the fresh air and sunshine, police are urging local people to remain security conscious or risk falling victim to crime.

Traditionally, burglaries tend to rise in summer with opportunist unscrupulous thieves cashing-in on the opportunity to sneak in to a property via an insecure window or door, so officers are appealing to their communities to lock up and help them beat the criminals.

Crime Prevention Officer Terry Belshaw said “While we are enjoying this good weather, residents are opening up their homes to the sunshine, spending time in the gardens, BBQ-ing and visiting neighbours. 

“Everyone’s spirits are lifted in good weather and we don’t want this to be spoiled by opportunist thieves who take advantage of an open window or an unlocked door.

“We are asking local people to remember to lock it or lose it - always secure your doors and windows when you are not at home or when you are out in the garden or even taking a shower - and remember to secure your home properly before going to bed.”

Cumbria has one of the lowest burglary rates in the country yet figures show that a significant amount of burglary at homes in this county could be prevented if people took basic steps to secure their property.

To date, 36 per cent of burglaries that have been reported in homes in South Cumbria this year (since January 2012) have occurred at insecure premises.

Terry Belshaw continues “We are asking people to use common sense and not to leave valuable items on display– so keep your laptops, mobile phones, cameras, and computers safe and out of view from windows or doors. This may sound like common sense, but a third of South Cumbria’s reported burglaries are via committed via insecure doors and windows. This advice is also important for those travelling in hot cars – remember to close your windows when you leave the vehicle and remove valuables from view.

“Tackling burglary is a priority for the Constabulary, particularly burglaries that are committed at people’s homes. Having a stranger enter your home and steal personal belongings is an invasion of privacy and can have a real impact on victims.

“If everyone takes a moment to consider their home security and look out for vulnerable friends and neighbours, we can help to stop burglars and enjoy a crime-free summer.”

For more information and useful crime prevention advice visit the Cumbria Constabulary website at http://www.cumbria.police.uk/ or contact you local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101.