The Metropolitan Police are reminding Londoners to lock their doors and windows after official figures revealed that burglars were able to simply walk into homes in more than 5,000 of the burglaries which occurred last year.
The force has launched a new awareness campaign to remind homeowners about locking their doors, using breakfast radio ads and digital advertising displays to reinforce the message “lock before you leave”.
IN addition to the advertising activity, officers from the force also been visiting local communities to offer crime prevention advice including encourage homeowners to properly secure UPVC windows and doors.
The Met’s Assistant Commissioner Ian McPherson is urging Londoners to be vigilant: “Although most residential burglaries involve criminals forcing their way into homes, many thefts occur when suspects simply walk in or climb in.
“Our simple message is always ‘lock before you leave’. If your home is locked up and secure, burglars will find it much harder to get in.”
To help Londoners reduce the chances of suffering a burglary the Met has issued the following advice:
* Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes.
* Make sure UPVC doors are properly locked with a key.
* Make sure the side and/or back gate is locked.
* Lock your shed or garage.
* Make sure that any valuables are out of sight.
* Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home.
* Don’t leave your car keys or ID documents near doors, windows or your letterbox.
For more crime prevention tips and advice on how to make your home secure call 0300 123 1212 or visit metbumblebee.org
