Burglary police warning

Photo: Ask Bury

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Residents are being urged to secure their windows and doors following a spate of burglaries in the Heywood area.

Between 6 March and 23 April, 28 homes in the Heywood were broken into. Eleven of these burglaries could have been avoided as thieves had entered the properties because of unlocked windows or doors.

The houses in the surrounding area have been sent letters informing residents that burglars are operating in their area, along with tips on how to keep their homes safe. Patrols have been increased.

Darrell Butterworth, Inspector for the Heywood Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “In recent months we have run a number of operations to reduce burglary and have lots more activity planned for the coming weeks. However, we really do need you to drive down this crime even further.

“I cannot stress enough the importance of securing windows and doors at all times even when you are in especially now it’s getting warmer. Also, use your alarm if you have one and leave a light on when you go out to make it look like someone is in.

“Motorists are advised never to leave their car or house keys either near window sills, in porches or hallways and are urged to put them as well as any valuables away and out of sight, preferably in a locked drawer or cabinet. Be vigilant, if you see anything suspicious contact the police immediately.

“If you don’t secure your home you are not only leaving yourself vulnerable to burglars, but you may also be invalidate any insurance claim.”

Police are encouraging residents to register and property mark your valuables so that they can be returned if lost or stolen.

By registering valuables on www.immobilise.com owners can put details of their prized possessions on a national database that police can access and compare against items that have been found or recovered from suspected criminals.

Police are also offering the following advice to help protect homes against burglars:

• Keep windows locked but if you need to open them, ensure you lock them when you leave the room
• Keep all external doors locked, even when you are in
• Use light timer switches or simply leave a light on when you are out to give the impression someone is at home
• Always set your burglar alarm when you go to bed
• Mark all valuables with a UV pen, to include your postcode and house number or first two letters of your house name
• Never leave car or house keys near window sills, in porches or hallways
• Put keys and valuables away and out of sight, preferably in a locked drawer or cabinet. 

If you have information on anyone who may be committing crime in your area, please call police on 0161 872 5050 or for more information visit gmp.police.uk.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.