Rising temperatures and hot weather present criminals with additional opportunities. Taking a few simple precautions can reduce the chances of you becoming a victim of a summer crime.
People are generally more relaxed when they are in their own homes and security can lapse, particularly with the onset of good weather. In summer burglary rates can increase as access to properties becomes easier via open or insecure windows. London can be a hot, stuffy place; naturally we like to ventilate our homes and/or business premises. Burglars will exploit any open window.
Even if you are in the building a burglar will often strike while householders sleep upstairs, or when you are just in the back garden, or another part of the building. We encourage people to fit and most importantly, use good mortice locks on all doors and key operated locks on accessible windows (do not leave keys in the locks).
"Accessible windows" are ones relatively easy to reach. The obvious ones are those at ground level, but those above a ground floor extension or porch, or next to a drainpipe can be equally as easy to reach.
Traditional sash windows can be secured by fitting two pairs of sash stops to the upper frame. The lower pair locks the window shut, but can be removed to allow a 6-inch gap for ventilation; the upper pair prevents the window being opened further. Be mindful of a criminals’ ability to fish for nearby items via this gap though, the window is secure to actual entry perhaps, but not entirely secure. A room with a window secured in this fashion should not be left unoccupied and items of value should never be left in view of such a window, even if the room is occupied: a thief can strike in a matter of seconds if the item is close enough to the window.
Ask neighbours to keep an eye on your property while you are away, be prepared to return the favour.When parking your motor vehicles never leave valuables, including sunglasses on display. Encourage visitors to do the same. Even indications there may be something of worth in your car can give rise to an attempt – a jacket on the back seat or floor of the car, sucker marks on the window from a satellite navigation cradle etc
Whilst driving in slow traffic, remember handbags, phones etc on seats could be grabbed through an open window. The offender might be on a bicycle or moped with little chance of being caught.
Cycle crime increases in summer simply because more people use their bikes. Unattended bicycles should always be locked to something solid. Secure the frame and wheels, two locks being better than one. Remember those expensive bike accessories as well take them with you. Visit www.bikeoff.org for further information on reducing cycle crime (as well as others – a more detailed list an be provided by your local Crime Prevention Officer).
Finally, remember to care for personal possessions when out walking. The Borough has several parks and open places to enjoy in warm weather, don't let a Robber spoil your day.