Perth and Kinross Local Area Commander’s Bulletin

by | May 9, 2021 | Village Notices

Wednesday 28 April

Secure your Home

Although having your home broken into is something many people fear, it is not a common occurrence. There are however many ways that you can help secure your home from intruders. They don’t all cost money – some are purely down to common sense and good housekeeping.

What’s the first area I should think about?

First think about the outer perimeter of the home, which may be the garden or alternatively a common close or stairwell.

What basic steps can I take to protect my home?

Think about basic good housekeeping routines that aren’t expensive.

  • Many thieves are actually opportunists who do not have to break in at all because a door or window has been left open or unlocked. Keep your home securely locked at all times.
  • Don’t leave keys on the inside of door locks, under mats or anywhere else an intruder may easily find them.
  • Don’t put your name or room number on your keyring if you live in shared accommodation. If it is lost or stolen, the thief will have information that could direct them to your home and your property.
  • Don’t keep house keys and car keys on the same key ring.
  • Avoid keeping large amounts of cash in the house. If you must then disperse it in various locations.
  • Security mark your property with a UV marker pen. You can use this pen to place an invisible imprint of your postcode and house number on your possessions.
  • Record details of your valuables, such as mobile phone, cameras, laptops and tablets on the national mobile property register at www.immobilise.com
  • If you have a wall calendar, avoid mounting it near a window from where appointments can potentially be seen – this may give an indication of when a property will be empty.

What help is available?

  • Neighbourhood Watch operates in many local communities.  Find out if a group exists in your area or about how to set a group up by speaking to your local community policing team by dialing 101.
  • For general crime prevention advice and tips on how to keep your home secure, speak to your local community policing team by dialing 101.