Crime prevention advice issued following four burglaries in Wallington.

We are reminding residents in Wallington of our crime prevention advice following four burglaries in the area..

Between January 24 and February 6 three homes on Waterside Gardens, Radclyffe Road, and East Hill Close were broken into. Jewellery, cash and Sonos speakers were taken from Waterside Gardens, nothing was stolen at the other two properties.

We are investigating whether the reports are linked to a burglary at East Hill Close on September 7 2018 where cash was stolen.

In addition, on December 20 a house on Wallington Shore Road had its cat flap damaged, but entry was not gained.

PC Nick Jackson said: “It is tempting as spring approaches, and warmer weather sets in, to leave windows and doors open to increase airflow, but if you’re not at home, or in a different part of the property, this could give an opportunistic thief a chance to steal your valuables. Please don’t give them the chance. Putting valuables out of sight, locking doors, and securing windows could prevent this from happening.

“Even if a door is locked, if the key is left in the lock on the inside, it can tempt an opportunistic thief to try to break in. Always make sure that keys are put out of sight and away from the door or window”.

We’d like to take this opportunity to remind you of the following crime prevention advice:

• Shut all windows and lock them when you are not using the room, at night and when you leave your property
• Lock all front and rear doors at night and when you are out. If you have a UPVC door with a multi-point lock ensure you lift the handle and lock it with the key. Remove the key after the door or window is locked.
• Put all car keys and other keys out of sight and not in reach of windows and letterboxes. It doesn't take much for the keys to be hooked through the letterbox.
• Leave a light on so your home looks occupied if you are going out for the evening. If you head out while it is still daylight and won't be back till after dark then timer switches (available from most DIY stores) can be useful for turning your lights, radios and other appliances on at a set time before you get back.
• Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property.
• Do not leave ladders and garden tools in your garden; lock them away in your shed.
• Have an intruder alarm system installed by an approved contractor. Ensure a visible alarm box is attached to the outside of your home. Also consider fitting security lighting.
• Use door chains and spy holes to give you extra security if someone knocks on your door. Never be afraid to turn people away. If you have concerns about anyone who has come to your door call the police.
• Record the details of your property such as serial numbers for electronic goods on the Immobilise website (https://www.immobilise.com/)