Did you know that One in Five house burglaries are opportunist and occur as a result of a door or window being left open or unlocked, if only for a short time.

Don’t give the burglars the chance! Keep your house locked.

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In general the incidence of crime rises when the evenings get darker and the clocks go back. One of the most “at risk” periods for house burglary is from mid-afternoon to early evening (when people are still at work or collecting children from school etc.) The simple preventative measures which can be taken to help deter the unwelcome visitor are:-

Ensure all doors and windows are locked: Always leave a light on (and perhaps a radio) when you go out or ideally have a light timed to come on when its gets dark. You could fit a light timer upstairs and down stairs, set at different times to create the impression of movement within the house. (Light timers are widely available at supermarkets and DIY stores)
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If you have an alarm, set it and Close your curtains and blinds

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At this time of year, dispose of packaging thoughtfully, (i.e. boxes for new televisions, computers etc.), do not leave them in view outside, hence advertising what you have bought.

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When Christmas shopping, keep valuable items locked in the boot if leaving the car unattended and beware of pickpockets in crowded streets and shops.

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External Sodium Security lights are available to purchase from Darlington Police Community Safety Department, Central House at a cost of £24 each. They automatically switch on at dusk and switch off at dawn. The lights are vandal proof and cost approximately £2.70 per year to run.
To purchase these lights or get further information : contact PC Ian Clelland on telephone number (01325) 346824.

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Contact the Police

Detecting Crime Crime investigations involve a multi-agency approach and one important aspect in the effort to combat crime is the information given to the police by members of the public. If you see any vehicle or any person acting suspiciously contact Darlington Police on 01325 467681.    The police will welcome your call, and not consider it a nuisance!

Call when : e.g. People walking around with a dog lead and no dog!
Take the make , colour and registration of suspicious vehicles.

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Help yourself by marking your property. This decrease the chances of having your property stolen and increase the chances of it being recovered. There are various methods of property marking eg special marker pens. Any items can be marked such as electrical equipment , tools, ornaments, vehicles, in fact, anything of value. For further information contact your local crime prevention officer on (01325) 346824 ____________________________________________________________________________