Police Winter Advice

Whenever you go out, it’s important to leave your home secure so here’s a quick reminder on what to do just before you go out. Also try to make it look like there is someone at home.

• Close and lock all your doors and easily accessible windows, even if you’re only going out for a few minutes. It's best to keep doors locked if you are at home as well!

• Make sure that any valuables are out of view from windows and glass doors.

• Keep handbags and keys away from the letterbox or cat flap as thieves have been known to hook valuables out through them. Hide car keys away.

• Never leave car keys, documents, ID cards, cash or bank cards in obvious places such as kitchens or hallways….or in your car!

• If you go out during the autumn and winter evenings, shut the curtains and leave lights on. Burglars look for homes that are in total darkness to attack.

• You can get plug-in timers for your lamps - and timers for your ceiling lights. Don't just light up the hall. Fool a burglar by lighting up the landing, bathroom, bedroom and living room too. Really fox him by varying the times each light comes on. Simulated TV’s are also available to give the impression someone is home.

• Always set your burglar alarm.

• Make sure the side gate is locked and your rear garden is really difficult to access.

• Lock your shed or garage.

• Lock your bike inside a secure shed or garage, to a robust fitting bolted to the ground or wall, like a ground anchor. Security mark your bikes and record serial numbers. A photograph or two is useful if the bike is stolen.

• Always use the best padlocks and chains you can afford. Sold Secure offers impartial advice on security products. Visit www.soldsecure.com

• If you have concerns about your home security, your local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) will be able to offer you help and advice.

You can find who your local officer is by following this link https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/

alternatively you could call 101 if you do not have internet access