Burglary Prevention Advice

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

At this time of year in London, the risk of burglary can increase due to a combination of seasonal factors. Shorter daylight hours provide greater cover for offenders, particularly during late afternoons and early evenings when many properties are unoccupied. Colder weather and the approach of the festive period also means that residents may be away from home more often, whether commuting in the dark, travelling or attending social events.
I encourage residents to ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, to use exterior and interior lighting where possible and to avoid leaving valuables on display. With the approach of the festive period homes may have higher value items, making basic security measures even more important.
By staying vigilant and following simple burglary prevention advice residents can help protect their homes and reduce the risk of break-ins.

Please click on the link below to learn more about protecting your home from burglaries.
https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime/

While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you:  

• Double lock your door every time you leave the house  

• If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access.  

• Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows.  

• Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through.  

• If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house.  

• Make sure all valuables are out of sight. 

• Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps.  

• In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on.  

• Set your burglar alarm 

• Lock your  shed or garage 

• Mark, register or record your valuables. 

Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

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