Our Objectives
To help residents in the UK feel safe, be secure and protected
To help educate our customers about the potential risks and reduce crime, while offering an effective deterrent and monitored security service to help protect them and their families every day
To reduce the amount of wasted police and emergency services time by minimising false activations and giving those more vulnerable 24 hour contact through key holders and a monitoring centre
While overall crime rates are reported to be falling in some areas, the below information may help you understand the need for effective security measures and decide on what action you need to take.
You can find out more about this subject from the home office website www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk
National media reports state:
Crime falls but burglaries rise April 2009
Latest statistics show the crime rate has fallen, but burglaries in England and Wales have increased.
The figures show burglaries in England and Wales have increased 4% compared to the year before.
It is the second time burglaries have increased since the credit crunch began.
The figures came from the Home Office that uses both Police figures and the British Crime Survey
Recession crime wave January 2009
The Independent reports that burglary and robbery are on the rise. According to The Independent crime has doubled in some areas in the UK, in the midst of the credit crunch.
Burglary or robbery rose in 31 of the 43 forces in August to December last year (2008).
It seems that people are turning to crime as the recession bites.
Crime Survey: More Thefts And Burglaries April 2009
House break-ins recorded by police rose 4% between October and December.
Is the recession driving up the incidence of certain crimes?
The increase in domestic burglaries is a repeat of the rise in home breakins recorded in the third quarter.
It prompted fears of a "credit crunch crime wave" linked to the rise in unemployment.
Latest crime statistics April 2009
Darren Black, head of home insurance at Confused.com, said: "It’s not surprising to see an increase in burglaries; it’s one of the more unfortunate and sinister affects of the recession. It is essential that all homeowners take whatever steps they can to protect themselves.
Confused.com estimates a staggering 16 million homes in the UK have no monitored alarm fitted and it’s one of the most effective deterrents for would-be burglars.
Practical advice for reducing crime in your area.
In 3 out of 10 burglaries, thieves do not have to use force. They get in through an open door or window. The following ‘top tips’ have been drawn up to help reduce the risk of burglary:
- 1. Windows - in just under one third (30%) of burglaries with entry, the thief gained access through an unlocked door or open window. Make sure doors and windows are locked particularly when leaving the house.
- 2. Lighting - leave a light on to give the impression there is someone at home. 58% of burglaries take place in the evening or night and 34% occur at the weekend. Time switches can be fitted to operate radios and lights when you are out.
- 3. When the clocks go back - this article looks at the increased risk of burglary during the winter months, and gives some information on what can be done to alleviate the risk. See the home office crime website.
- 4. Burglar Alarms - visible burglar alarms make burglars think twice.
- 5. Keys - never leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place such as under the doormat or in a flowerpot - a thief will look there first. Never leave keys near a window or door (thieves are increasingly stealing car keys so they can take cars.
- 6. Secure all doors - thieves are most likely to target doors when attempting to break in (67%). Check the condition of the frames, hinges and glass panels. Fit such devices as chains and door viewers. Patio doors will also need special fitted locks.
- 7. Garages and Sheds - are often left unlocked and may be full of tools ideal for breaking into the rest of the house. Fit sheds and garages with strong padlocks and ideally an alarm. Always lock ladders in the garage or shed to stop a thief using them.
- 8. Postcode your property - marked property can deter burglars because it is harder for a thief to sell on and may also help police secure a conviction.
- 9. Good Neighbours - if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, call the police. Get in touch with your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme or form a new one in your area - see what they’re doing and how you can contribute.
- 10. Bogus callers - in 4% of burglaries thieves used false pretence to gain entry to a property. They are known as "distraction burglars" or "bogus callers", whose aim is to get into homes to distract people and steal their money or valuables. If you are unsure about the person at the door, do not let them in.
- 11. Insurance - insurance will relieve you of the financial worry of replacing stolen goods and many insurance companies offer reduced premiums for people with good home security
You can find out more about this subject from the home office website: www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk
What now?
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