Timely reminder to check home security

POLICE are reminding property owners to check their home security now that the clocks have gone forward.

Households across the region welcomed lighter nights with the arrival of British Summer Time at the weekend and there are a number of security tips that can be observed to protect against opportunistic thieves.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Judge, who is the lead on burglary offences for Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police, said:

"As the clocks go forward and we enjoy the longer days it is important that people remain mindful of their home security.

"People should ensure that doors and windows at the front of their homes are secure if they are enjoying time in their gardens.

"Expensive garden equipment should always be locked away in a safe and secure location when not in use and the same goes for bikes which can be a tempting target if left unattended and unsecured.

"Although tempting to leave windows open on warmer days, we urge members of the public to make sure their homes are securely locked before leaving them."

There are a number of simple steps that can be taken to minimise the risk to homes

• locking doors while working in the garden
• making sure doors are locked while sat watching television
• closing windows in areas that are accessible to a thief, such as a flat roof or rear window next to garden furniture that can be used as a climbing aid
• locking up last thing at night and not assuming that someone in the house has already done it
• closing downstairs windows or doors after they have been opened in hot weather
• securing all windows and doors if popping over to a neighbours house