Shrewsbury householders urged to be security conscious following series of burglaries

The advice has been issued by police following a spate of break-ins resulting from doors and windows being left insecure.

Local Policing Teams will be issuing advice to residents and Response officers are maintaining a watch on the worst effected areas.

Since the beginning of April, a total of 29 home burglaries and three attempted burglaries have been recorded in the north of Shrewsbury, the majority in the Sundorne, Harlescott and Battlefield areas.

Most have occurred overnight while householders were asleep. In 23 cases, the properties were insecure with entry gained through rear doors, windows and conservatories left open or unlocked.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Edwards, head of Shrewsbury CID, said: “Domestic burglaries remain relatively few in Shrewsbury, and indeed, in Shropshire as a whole. However, there has been a recent increase in the north of Shrewsbury.

“We have a duty to make people aware of what’s happening so they can take extra care and make sure they remember to maintain security. It’s important everyone remembers to shut ground floor windows at night and to lock their doors, especially during warmer weather.”

During the recent burglaries, cash, laptops, mobile phones and computer consoles were among items targeted.

Letters offering advice on household security are being delivered to homes in the areas most effected.

Police are also urging people to call Shrewsbury police station on 0300 333 3000 if they spot anything suspicious. DCI Edwards said: “We are keen to receive any information, no matter what time of the day or night. For example, if you see somebody who you don’t know at your premises, please phone in using the numbers shown below. It doesn’t matter how trivial it might seem – all calls will be welcome and treated in the strictest confidence”.

Following these simple tips will help protect your home:

– Close and secure all doors and windows when leaving the premises, even when popping out for a few minutes.
– When at home don’t leave windows open in areas of the house that are unattended.
– Close all ground floor and easily accessible windows when retiring at night.

Also consider the following:

– Fit and use key lockable locks on all ground floor windows and those that are easily accessible.
– Fit deadlocks (British Standard BS3621) to all external doors. Check your insurance policy – this might be a requirement.
– Prevent intruders getting into your rear garden. Walls and fences should be in good order and ensure that the gate is locked.
– Fit a security light by the front and rear doors.

And when you are away from home on holiday:

– Let a neighbour or friend know you’re going away.
– Arrange for them to check on your house – collect mail, open/close curtains.
– Remember to cancel milk and newspapers.
– Encourage a neighbour to park on your drive.
– Use timer switches to turn lights on during the evenings.
– Don’t forget your garden! Effective garden security will help keep your home secure.

West Mercia Police runs a Safe & Secure crime prevention campaign all year round, offering advice to the public on how to keep themselves, their homes, gardens and vehicles protected. More information is available on the Force website, www.westmercia.police.uk