Summertime Home Security

As we enjoy some warmer weather at last, Thames Valley Police has released a reminder to residents about keeping our property safe and secure.

Most burglars are opportunistic and a property that presents itself as insecure is far more likely to be targeted than one which is properly secured.

As the weather improves it is important that you do not leave ground floor windows or doors open and unlocked unless you are in that room — it only takes a second for someone to enter your home and take things without you noticing.

Please take a moment to have a look at these top tips for keeping your property secure over the summer:

• Always close and lock your windows and doors when leaving your property — even a small open window could entice a burglar
• If you're in your garden make sure the windows and doors at the front of your property are secure
• Do not leave valuables on display through windows
• Any car or house keys should be out of sight and some distance from a window or door
• Ensure that any side entrance is secure, locked and not easy to climb over, even when you're at home.
• If you want to leave windows open while you sleep, fit window restrictors so they cannot be fully opened
• Consider installing a visible security light or alarm to deter criminals

Holiday Tips

• If you're going on holiday make arrangements to ensure that your house appears occupied whilst you're away
• Put your lights on a timer or ask a neighbour to come and pick up your mail and draw your curtains
• Don't advertise the fact you're on holiday on social media

We would also encourage you to register your high end valuables such as bikes, mobile phones, laptops etc. on the online property database Immobilise. It's free to do so, only takes a couple of minutes and could help us reunite you with your property should it be stolen.

If you see anyone acting suspiciously please call the police either on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

If you don't want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.

For further advice on keeping your properties secure please visit our website