New year home security

Cheshire Police are reminding people that just because Christmas and the New Year have been and gone you shouldn't relax about the security of your home.

Home security is as important as ever at this time of year. Criminals are well aware that many homes will have expensive new additions in the way of electrical items, jewelry, bicycles, tablets and mobile phones.

It's a good idea to think about what you have done with that leftover packaging. Is there a tell-tale sign of expensive new items in your home? Have you got packaging or empty boxes from new TV's, computers or other items outside your home which might give criminals a clue as to what is inside your property?

Make sure that your home is not a target for criminals by getting rid of any large amounts of packaging. If it won't go in your bin, take it straight to a local household waste recycling centre and dispose of it there.

Always ensure that new items are not left on display for anyone to see easily through windows or from the street. You wouldn't leave £500 in cash on your windowsill – don't leave your new phone or tablet in full view of potential thieves.

It is always a good idea to protectively mark your property using ultra violet pens or indelible liquids. Marking your property with your postcode will help you to get it back as well as deter thieves.

As always, ensure that your home is secure at night or when unoccupied, make sure that your windows and doors are locked, leave lights on when you are out and if you have a security system or lighting, make sure it is switched on and working.

It is equally important to ensure that any sheds or outbuildings are secure, not only can criminals use items inside to break into your home, but bikes and other items inside can also be costly to replace.

If you have expensive jewelry or gold items ensure that they are locked in a good quality safe which is secured to a solid wall or floor.

Be aware of people acting suspiciously in your area. Have you seen anyone walking around calling at homes where there appears to be nobody in?

Perhaps you have seen vehicles driving around your street apparently aimlessly. Most burglaries are opportunistic, with thieves checking out which homes are empty before striking.

Superintendent Martin Cleworth said: "It's not about being paranoid and covering up everything you own whenever you leave the room, we just want people to think about general security and lowering the risk of becoming a victim of crime whenever possible.

"Thankfully Cheshire is a very safe place to live with burglaries across the county dropping by 19% this December compared to last year.

"But crime still happens here as it does anywhere and the best way to avoid being one of the unlucky ones is to make sure your home and property is not seen as an easy target.".

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