Police Scotland Area Commanders Report

DARKER NIGHTS

As we move from summer to autumn and the darker nights draw in I feel it prudent to provide some home security advice. Although having your home broken into is something many people fear, it is not a common occurrence.

We should all be vigilant as in previous years communities within Perthshire have been victim to criminals who travel from other areas to take advantage of our rural communities; particularly those situated close to the main arterial routes of the A9, A90 and M90.

There are 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 basic steps can I take to protect my home?

First, 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 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.

Consider having lighting controlled by a timer or even invest in a ‘fake TV’ and remember it will soon be getting dark from late afternoon so try and ensure your house is not in darkness before you return from work.

Avoid keeping large amounts of cash in the house. If you must then disperse it in various locations.

Don’t leave all your expensive jewellery in the same place (i.e. bedside drawers); invest in a safe which is secured onto the floor or wall of the property.

Security mark your property with a UV marker pen or use a microdot provider. These leave an invisible yet traceable mark 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.

To help protect your outbuildings and to light the outside of your property think about investing in solar powered security lights.

If you have a shed or garage then invest in a good padlock and think about securing any expensive bikes or tools to the actual structure.