Keep your home secure, say police

Superintendent Martin Greenhalgh

Police in Rochdale are urging residents to keep their homes secure to avoid becoming a victim of burglar in 2011.

One in three burglaries are a result of insecure windows or doors.

Patrols have been increased in the areas and letters have been sent to residents to let them know that burglars are operating in their area. It also provides advice on how to keep their homes safe.

Superintendent Martin Greenhalgh, for Rochdale Division said: "I would urge people to check their properties for any insecurities before going to bed. Make sure your vehicle is securely locked and alarmed and that all valuables have been removed at night. It is important to remember that insecure vehicles and properties are the ideal target for thieves in our community.

“Residents are advised never to leave their car or house keys either near window sills or 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 invalidate any insurance claim.

“Your neighbourhood policing team is here for you and you can contact us with any information you may have regarding these crimes on 0161 856 8983, or you can speak to an officer in confidence by ringing crime stoppers on 0800 555 111."

Police are encouraging residents to register and property and mark any valuables to ensure 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. The online service is totally free and is quick and easy to use.

Almost any item with a serial number recovered by police can be returned to the owner if registered on the database. Users can also add photographs and certificates of ownership to their Immobilise account. Once registered, users can update their account with details of new possessions and take off items they no longer own.

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.