POLICE WARN PUBLIC TO LOCK IT OR LOSE IT AS THE WARMER WEATHER DRAWS IN

Cumbria Constabulary are turning their attentions to residential areas this week as part of their annual acquisitive crime campaign, warning the public to be vigilant and take simple measures to protect and secure their property.

As clocks change bringing in longer daylight hours, Police are warning the public to lock their doors and windows or risk losing their possessions.

In 2013, there were 7,977 reported incidents of an acquisitive crime type in residential areas in Cumbria. This is an increase of just over 4% from 2012 where there were 7,643 reported incidents.

Inspector Jon Sherlock, of the Constabulary’s Community Safety Unit, explains:

“We hope that this campaign will encourage people to take some simple steps to ensure that their property and belongings remain in their possession and that they don’t become victims of crime.

“As the stats show, acquisitive crime has increased in residential areas. Due to improvements in security, our homes and buildings have never been more secure. Too much acquisitive crime however is opportunist, offenders entering through unlocked doors and open windows. The simple steps of locking doors, windows, outbuildings and not leaving expensive equipment on show can be the most effective deterrents. I can’t emphasise enough the need to take these simple steps and a routine when leaving the house or before going to bed.

“We appreciate the need to open windows in warmer weather; however modern deigns allows some security with the windows on a latch, don’t invite thieves into your home. On leaving your property ensure the doors and windows are locked and if away for an extended period, notify a neighbour.

“The image of a thief with a crow-bar breaking into your home, is in 2014 more commonly replaced by someone walking along a row of terraced houses trying every door handle, entering and stealing from the unfortunate home owner who didn’t lock their door, don’t let that be you.

 “We want to lower the number of victims in residential communities, but we need everyone’s help to do this. By following some simple crime prevention advice people can significantly reduce the risk of burglary.

“If anyone has any concerns around acquisitive crime or has suspicions around stolen property, I would encourage them to call Cumbria Police on 101.”

This is the second week of the acquisitive campaign which focussed on rural areas in the first week.

Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said:

“We all need to take these simple steps to guard against the risk of burglary, and be mindful that opportunistic thieves may be operating in our areas.  It can take an opportunistic thief less than two minutes to commit burglary. To help reduce the risk, people should read the important crime prevention information provided by the police.”

For more information about protecting your property and belongings, please visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/securehome.

If you see anything suspicious in your area, please contact Cumbria Police on 101.