Police warning to Shropshire residents after car key burglaries
As the evenings begin to slowly draw in, West Mercia Police is urging local residents to review their night-time security measures to keep their property safe and secure.
Burglary numbers remain relatively low in West Mercia, but there has been a recent spate of car key burglaries across the force. Local residents can reduce their chances of being targeted by taking a few simple steps to keep themselves and their property safe:
- Lock windows and doors before going to bed
- Don't leave your front door unlocked for relatives who are out and about - it is much safer to give them a key.
- West Mercia Police has an active operation in place to target car key burglars but you can help by keeping your car keys safe at night and out of reach of your letterbox.
- A well-lit home gives the impression that someone is at home. Leave a light on while you are out during the evenings.
- If you have a garage for your car please use it
- Don't leave side gates open or unlocked
A force spokesperson said: "Criminals will break into homes to steal car keys if they spot a vehicle they want to take. Often the vehicles stolen are high value and high performance, but not always. We are urging residents in West Mercia to make it more difficult for burglars by sticking to some basic crime prevention advice."
If you have been a victim of crime you need to report the matter to police as soon as possible. Neighbours can help each other out by keeping an eye on each other properties when they are away on holiday or by reporting any suspicious vehicles or activity in your area. Make a note of number plates, for example.
For more home security advice, visit the force website: www.westmercia.police.uk/advicecentre/
