Protect your valuables from burglars this autumn

Kent Police is reminding families of the steps they can take to protect their homes from burglars who target expensive jewellery and gold.

 

Over the previous two autumns there were a number of burglaries of this nature across north and west Kent.

 

Many of the victims were from Asian households and there was evidence of homes being targeted while the occupants were out celebrating religious festivals such as Diwali, Navratri and the Ascension of Abdu’l-Baha.

 

Officers are keen to prevent such offences happening and are appealing for everyone to play their part by keeping their homes and valuables secure.

 

Kulbir Pasricha, community liaison co-ordinator for Kent Police, said: ‘You can never underestimate just how much of an impact burglary can have on the lives of those affected.

 

‘To know someone has been inside your home and rifling through your personal possessions can be completely devastating, destroying your sense of safety and privacy.

 

‘Victims feel violated and uneasy in their own homes, and the matter is made worse when the items stolen are not only valuable but also highly sentimental and of cultural significance. In some cases the value of the items can exceed tens of thousands of pounds too.

 

‘While our officers will do everything they can to prevent such burglaries occurring, we must all accept responsibility for making sure our homes are secure and making it as difficult as possible for would-be offenders to strike.

 

‘For example, I would strongly encourage families to keep large amounts of cash or gold out of the house such as in a safety deposit box at a bank. If you do need to keep high-value items at home then keep them in a good quality safe, bolted to a solid wall or floor and hidden in a cupboard.’

 

Additional advice

 

Most burglaries happen on weekdays in daylight when you are more likely to be out. As well as locking up each time you leave, you can also:

 

• Keep keys, cash and expensive items out of view;

 

• Use timer switches on lights and radios to make your home look occupied;

 

• Keep gates locked and boundaries secure;

 

• Lock away bikes, tools and garden items that could be stolen or used to break into your home;

 

You can also:

 

• Security-mark items including bicycles, mobile telephones and laptops;

 

• Keep receipts, mobile phone IMEI numbers and serial numbers safe;

 

• Photograph and insure expensive or unique items;

 

• Install a safe, bolted to the ground or a wall, or use a safety deposit box at the bank;

 

• Register important items for free at immobilise.com to help us return stolen items if they are recovered.

 

Anyone who wishes to report a burglary or any suspicious activity is urged to call 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress.

 

supplied by Kent Police