Police issue advice after spate of burglaries
Date: 23/05/2008 13:03:51
Homeowners in one area are being urged to look at their properties "with a burglar's eyes" after a spate of thefts.
A total of 49 homes have been hit in the last three months in the Cambridgeshire town of St Neots, prompting police to issue advice.
According to the St Neots Town Crier newspaper, most of the thefts have involved a forced entry through rear doors and windows.
Quoted by the publication, community engagement and crime reduction manager Sally Davies said: "There are some simple steps which you can take to help reduce the risk of being burgled."
She said homeowners should check windows and doors are locked, even when a property is occupied.
People can also imagine they are a potential thief and scrutinise their home security measures, such alarms and exterior lights.
Households could also consider checking their
home insurance provider has an up-to-date record of their contents to ensure their cover is adequate.
Burglary rates are dropping nationally, with the number of domestic thefts down by 59 per cent from 1995 to 2007, according to Home Office records.