Operation Dark Nights

Officers from Durham Police and neighbourhood watch volunteers have been patrolling in areas known to have had recent burglaries and carrying out checks on more than 3,000 homes under the new " dark nights initiative" and have found that an alarming number were susceptible to burglary with garage doors being left open and houses in complete darkness Det Ch Insp Dave Ashton said: "We know that homes left in darkness are much more likely to be targeted by criminals." The force is offering to supply home security solutions such as lighting timers to households in the area. The dark nights initiative is surveying more and more homes in the West Yorkshire area and expanding to other areas to get the message out that this November/December is a time not just for celebration and frivolity but for care and caution too. The winter months see a climb in the number of households becoming victims of burglary due in part to the cover offered by the extra darkness. Households are advised not only to invest in home security solutions and burglar alarm installation but to observe certain basic security steps that can prevent you from becoming a victim. The new generation of smart home alarm systems available offer peace of mind and 'high tech' interactivity but as with any home security solution it will not work without common sense on the operator's part and simple steps must still be taken. Police forces up and down the country are offering advice on how to avoid being a victim of crime with tips such as

* When you leave the house leave a light and television/radio on to make the house appear occupied use timer switches to give the impression of people moving about the house.

* If you are investing in burglar alarm installation use a reputable company to avoid being a victim of scam installers.

* Make sure that all sheds and outbuildings are secured and all ladders and tools put away to prevent them from being used by an opportunistic burglar.

* Check all doors and windows for weaknesses, old locks that are due for replacement can be forced easier and any loose panels or panes of glass could provide easy access for a would be burglar.

* Be careful with your keys . Don't leave your keys in the door or on in a handy bowl on a table next to the door where a burglar can hook them through the letterbox and do away with the hider key. this is a burglar's dream and they know just where to look.

With basic home security measures everyone can stay protected and safe this winter.

Source : articlesbase.com