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Leicestershire Constabulary is urging residents to keep thieves locked out this summer. As the temperatures rise, so do the number of burglaries at properties where the windows or doors have been left open or unlocked. PC Ashley Russell, the Force's Crime Reduction Coordinator, said: "A lot of burglaries are carried out on the spur of the moment by thieves who see an opportunity, such as an open window, and take it. "It is no surprise then that burglaries typically increase over the summer months as the warmer weather encourages residents to open their doors and windows to let in air. "It is really frustrating because the majority of these crimes are preventable. Please, if you are going out, always make sure that all ground floor windows and doors are securely shut. This applies even if you are just in the back garden having a barbecue or doing the watering. "Keep any side gates secure with a bolt or padlock to prevent access to the rear of your property and make sure you have good locks on any sheds or garages. They often house an array of expensive equipment from garden tools to bicycles and they can be very tempting for thieves." Everybody has a part to play in preventing crime. If you see somebody who isn't usually in the area and is paying lots of attention to people's houses then call the police on (0116) 222 2222. Alternatively call Crimestoppers, which is free* and anonymous, on 0800 555 111. If you see a burglary actually taking place dial 999. For more information regarding crime prevention measures for your home please view Leicestershire Constabulary's website or call 0116 222 2222 and ask to speak to your local crime reduction officer. * Please note some mobile phone service providers may charge for this call. |
