Dont be complacent - keep your home safe
Date Published: 14/08/2012
P
olice in the Neath Port Talbot and Pontardawe are reminding residents to lock their doors and windows. The warning follows a spate of burglaries which occurred during the last spell of hot and sunny weather when some 40 percent of burglaries were of insecure homes.
Neath and Pontardawe neighbourhood inspector Dean Thomas
said: “We have recently experienced a number of burglaries from homes where householders have left doors or windows open. While we enjoy the hot sunny weather we should not become complacent with our home security.
“I am urging people to take more care of their homes and their possessions and to make sure they lock doors and windows, especially so when we are experiencing warmer weather.
“Do not leave any belongings where they can be easily taken. Many burglaries occur on the spur of the moment as a burglar may see an opportunity and take their chance. Some criminals will seek out insecure properties where they can find an easy target.
“Always keep your possessions in a secure place and a simple precaution such as remembering to lock doors and windows can save a lot of distress and annoyance in the long run,
“If you are working in your garden or just popping next door, always make sure your house is secure. A few minutes checking doors and windows just before bed time can save a tremendous amount of heartache, expense and inconvenience in the long term.”
“If a home has been burgled once it is more likely to be burgled again. After all, the burglar has been into the home and had a look around and identified any weak points in its security. Boost your security measures in the first instance and avoid the anxiety associated with a burglary in your home.
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nspector Thomas also recommends that spare keys should not be left in hiding places such as under the doormat or in a flowerpot - Thieves know all the hiding places.
“Don’t leave a window open for your cat to get in and out. If you have ladders which have to be left outside, padlock them to something secure so you are the only person who can use them,” he said.
Police also advise householders that if they require any advice on improving the security of their home they can contact the Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership or their Neighbourhood Policing Team.