Use lights to fight crime this Halloween

Detective Superintendent Mark Bell

Greater Manchester Police is urging residents to avoid the nightmare of being burgled this Halloween by remembering to leave a light on.

Officers say that burglary is continuing to go down. Latest figures shown a 10 per cent decrease in the six months between April – September this year when compared to the same period last year meaning 1,004 fewer victims of this crime.

However, they warn that people need to be particularly on their guard at this time of year as dark afternoons and evenings can provide extra cover for criminals seeking out empty homes to target. Leaving a light on can keep burglars guessing on whether your home is occupied and encourage them to give it a wide berth.

Recent research involving interviews with convicted burglars supports this simple tactic as an effective deterrent to thieves. It is also cheap and environmentally friendly as leaving a low-energy lightbulb on mid- afternoon to late evening when you are out can cost less than a penny a day.

Detective Superintendent Mark Bell who leads Operation Storm, Greater Manchester Police’s fight against burglars, robbers and thieves said: “Burglary is a distressing crime that deprives victims of valued possessions and can leave them feeling frightened and vulnerable in their own homes.

“Summer crackdowns this year saw more than 1,000 burglars, robbers and thieves being arrested. Criminals and residents can be assured that we will be continuing this level of activity into the autumn and winter months.

“Halloween, Bonfire Night and the clocks going back can all lead to an increase in burglaries as thieves use the cover of darkness to target empty homes when people go out for the evening.

“Leaving a light on, using timer switches, setting your burglar alarm and shutting and locking all doors and windows could save you coming home to a nasty shock.”

Suspicious activity can be reported to police by calling 0161 872 5050, online at www.gmp.police.uk or through Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in the case of an emergency, where there is a threat to life or a crime in progress.