The Crime Prevention Website

The following is a press release issued by our friends in Cumbria Police.  The security issues raised in this article are just as valid for anyone going on holiday

Cumbria Police are continuing to issue security advice and are highlighting the need to remain safety conscious when away from home.

Many people will enter the county to visit the many attractions that Cumbria has to offer. Despite the low crime rate, people can have their visit to our beautiful county spoiled by becoming victims of crime. In many cases this could have been easily avoided.  

Common targets are vehicles which have property on display, such as sat navs, mobile phone, handbags and laptops. These items are all desirable to thieves and being left in a car, even if locked, is still an easy target.

Another target can be caravans and tents. People will leave for the day to go walking in many of the scenic areas in Cumbria and sometimes security can be the last thing on their mind. Leaving expensive items behind in an insecure tent or caravan is not the best place. If you cannot carry it at all times, then leave it at home.

Inspector Jon Sherlock, responsible for the community safety departments in Cumbria, said: “Cumbria is an idyllic place to visit and we want to reassure people that we do have one of the lowest crime rates. It is not our aim to worry or scare people but we do want to ensure that they have security on their minds.

“By taking simple, common sense steps, we can beat the thieves at their own game. Criminals want an easy life, so don’t give them any opportunity to target you or your family, make sure all valuables are secure and safe.

Many people will be leaving the county to go on holiday and people want to return home without the heartache of finding they have been burgled.

Taking simple steps to secure your home when away can prevent you becoming a victim. Ask someone to check on the house, a neighbour or family member can report any suspicious behaviour to the police.

Also use light timers to have key areas in your home lit-up at night.

Make sure that you don’t give too much away on social media. Many of us stay in touch with friends and family whilst we are away. Cumbria Police are asking everyone to check their security settings on Facebook and Twitter or any other social network site.

Inspector Sherlock added: “When you post on social media that you are going on holiday or link your location when you are away, you’re advertising that your home is empty.

“We encourage people to make sure that their security settings are up to date and that they are not giving information to people they don’t know.

“Getting involved in groups and games on social media is great, but be aware that you are opening your profile to everyone else who is also in that group.

“Being mindful of what you post will help to ensure that everything is safe and sound when you get home.”

Reporting any suspicious behaviour could really help in preventing and detecting any crime in the area. We always encourage everyone to pass on information or details about anything they think is out of character to the police. It can be vital in building up intelligence and detecting crime.

Join in at: Twitter @Cumbriapolice. #lockitorloseit and/or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/cumbriapolice

This will enable you to keep up to date with things that are happening in the local area and could be an important reminder to lock it or lose it.

Throughout the summer there will be Police Desks in various locations in Cumbria where you can go and speak to an officer, get crime prevention advice and safety information. There will be useful leaflets available for anyone who has a caravan or chalet providing important safety messages and useful security reminders. For more information about Police Desks, visit www.cumbria.police.uk/policedesks 

END of press release.

SOME EXTRA ADVICE AND SUGGESTIONS

Holiday Security Checklist: http://thecrimepreventionwebsite.com/home-security-assessment/469/holiday-checklist-for-your-security/

For a handy wall switch timer for your lights while you’re away take a look at: http://thecrimepreventionwebsite.com/directory/l47/switched-on-products-limited/

Have you got secure cylinders on your door locks?  Want some extra security for your hotel bedroom door? http://thecrimepreventionwebsite.com/directory/12/door-locks-antibump-lock-cylinders-and-other-security-hardware/

Do you need a personal attack alarm while you’re away? http://thecrimepreventionwebsite.com/directory/30/personal-attack-alarms/

blog comments powered by Disqus