Winter Crime tips

Readers will be aware of recent success in tackling vandalism in the village, some of which has been due to the evidence provided by CCTV cameras.

Anthony Panaro, who is MD of a company called Eyes On 247, which installed the equipment used for some of the evidence, has kindly provided a list of tips for deterring crime during the Winter months.

Obviously, and quite fairly, the tips include the installation of CCTV where appropriate and a link to Mr Panaro's company is included – as he very reasonably points out there are many such systems available.

Winter Crime Tips

• Leaving your home during hours of darkness, without putting a light on or drawing the curtains, is an open invitation to the opportunist criminal that there is no-one at home.
• Use an automatic time switch on an indoor light, either in a room that cannot be peered into from the road, or upstairs. Regularly change the timing on the switch.
• Put a time switch on a radio that has been tuned to a chat station, this will give the impression that the house is occupied. Regularly change the timing on the switch.
• Fit security lighting, either dusk to dawn energy efficient lighting that will come on automatically as dusk sets in, or brighter passive infrared activated lighting drawing attention to movement.
• Ensure that gates or access to the rear of the house are locked and secure. Don't forget to lock your shed; your tools can be used to break in. Trim overgrown plants – don't give burglars a hiding place.
• Secure windows, paying particular attention to those on the ground floor and above flat roof areas. Use locks and bolts and keep all your keys, including car keys, out of sight and out of reach.
• Intruder alarms and CCTV are an effective deterrent against burglars.

CCTV systems

Before choosing a system ensure it is the one most suitable for your needs. There are many systems available on the market and a basic four channel camera system is simple to install. On average it takes 3-4 hours dependent on your "handy man skills" and the location of your cameras.

There are several other affordable systems which are the latest internet based security systems which are single cameras recording and transmitting images to your PC or smart phone.

Eyes On 247

Prices for 4-camera systems start at around £355 or fully fitted at £599.

4 channel wireless systems cost from £155.

For more information click here or ring for advice on 01782 680636

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