Lock windows and doors to keep burglars out

Residents in the borough are getting a stern reminder to lock windows and doors to keep burglars out.

Between 1 April and 20 June 2009, there were 456 reports of burglary in the borough and 30 per cent of those were a result of insecurities where gates, doors or windows had been left open or unlocked.

Detective Chief Inspector Graham Stevens, from Rochdale Division, said: “With the clocks going forward and the warmer weather upon us we know people like to open their windows and doors but this provides easy pickings for thieves. Our advice to the public is to ensure that all vulnerable windows and doors are kept locked - even when you are at home.

“Our research shows that in the spring and summer one in three burglaries happen as a result of people leaving their windows open like this and by simply locking doors and windows you can prevent yourself becoming a victim of crime. Also keeping valuables out of sight and storing garden furniture and equipment in a secure shed can reduce your chances of having items of your property stolen.”

For more information on preventing crime, please call Crime Reduction Advisors Brian Farr and Jackie Bell on 0161 856 8478 / 8475.

The council’s community safety team can offer practical security advice and arrange for home security surveys free of charge. For more information dial 01706 924982.

To report a crime contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

You can also contact your Neighbourhood Policing Team directly about any issues related to crime or anti-social behaviour on:

Rochdale North Neighbourhood Policing Team covering Norden, Healey, Bamford, Central, Town Centre, Spotland and Falinge on 0161 856 9961 / rochdalenorthpartnership@gmp.police.uk

Rochdale South Neighbourhood Policing Team covering Kingsway, Castleton, Milkstone and Deeplish, Balderstone and Kirkholt on 0161 856 8549 / rochdalesouthpartnship@gmp.police.uk

Middleton Neighbourhood Policing Team covering North, South, East and West Middleton on 0161 856 8701 / middletonpartnership@gmp.police.uk

Heywood Neighbourhood Policing Team covering Hopwood Hall, West and North Heywood on 0161 856 8589 / heywoodpartnership@gmp.police.uk

Pennine Neighbourhood Policing Team covering Littleborough Lakeside, Wardle and West Littleborough, Smallbridge and Firgrove and Milnrow and Newhey on 0161 856 4556 / pennineparnership@gmp.police.uk