CommunitySafe.gov.uk

You will be aware, I am sure, that we take the threat of your home being targeted by burglars very seriously.

We are currently aware of an increase in the number of offences occurring adjacent to, but NOT YET WITHIN Merton Park Ward.

This is especially true for the North-eastern part of the ward, and Roads which we are particularly targeting as being vulnerable include the northern part of Dorset Road; Erridge Road, Melrose Road, Church Lane, Sheridan Road and Kingston Road to ' The Rush '

We hope that, if you have not already, you will very shortly be receiving a double-sided flyer from us detailing some simple home prevention advice, and a ‘quick-guide’ to home security, which highlights key areas to consider around your home

Please be assured that the number of residential burglary offences in Merton Park for this year-to-date is almost half of that for 2009; 8 offences in 2010 compared to 15 in the same period 2009. With your help, we can keep it that way. Thank You

Below we have re-produced an outline of the information held on the flyers. We hope you find it of use.

1. Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes

2. Always keep sheds and outbuildings locked

3. Register all identifiable items with a serial number, FREE OF CHARGE at WWW.IMMOBILISE.COM

4. Never leave your car keys or identity documents near doors, letterboxes or windows. Hallways are especially vulnerable

5. Always check who is at the door. Don’t open it if you are unable to verify who the person is

6. Mark or etch valuable property with your postcode, house or flat number or the first three letters of your house name

7. Keep valuables out of sight away from windows if possible

8. Consider fitting timers to lights, or installing a burglar alarm

9. Cancel papers or other deliveries if you will be away for a few days.

10.Consider letting a friend borrow your driveway, to give the illusion of occupancy in you home

A QUICK HOME SECURITY CHECK

FRONT OF HOUSE
• Do trees/shrubs need cutting back, do they shield windows or doors
• Is there lighting
• Is there easy access to garden tools or other items a burglar could see
• Where is the dustbin kept, can it be used as a climbing aid
REAR OF HOUSE
• Is the shed locked
• Is the side gate locked (if applicable)
• Is there easy access to the back garden
FRONT DOOR
• Is there a solid front door
• Is the frame on good repair
• Is there a five lever mortice lock
WINDOWS
• Do not leave windows open
• Are locks fitted
• Garage security! Locks, alarms, lighting
INSIDE THE HOUSE
• Do you have valuables on display
• Do you have timer switches fitted to lights
• Is your property marked and serial numbers recorded