New non-emergency telephone number

April 13th, 2012

FROM Sunday (April 1), Cambridgeshire police can only be contacted on 101 for all non-emergency calls.

The old 0345 number will be switched off and a recorded message will tell people to call 101.

The old number has remained in use alongside 101 for the past year to allow people time to get used to the new number.

For the first time, everyone calling the police for non-emergency matters will know exactly how much it will cost them and it will be the same no matter what time of day or the duration of the call.

The number change is part of a national scheme to make 101 the single non-emergency number in England and Wales.

The change has been introduced so residents will have one, easy-to-remember way to contact local police, wherever they are.

The system has been designed to recognise where the caller is dialling from and connect them with the local police service.

If a caller does not want to speak to their local force they will be given the option to be connected to different one.

The number change does not affect the way that calls are handled and non-emergency calls will continue 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

People should continue to call 999 when an immediate response is needed, for example if a crime is happening, someone suspected of a crime is nearby, or someone is in danger.

Your Local Neighbourhood Policing Team

February 2012 briefing 2

February 2nd, 2012

Following a number of daytime dwelling burglaries in the Queen Edith’s area, we are urging residents to be vigilant and cautious of their home security. The majority of these recent burglaries have been where the suspect(s) is entering the properties through ground floor doors and windows in the daytime and using garden tools to force their way in.

We urge residents to check that all windows and doors are secure when you leave your property- even if you are going out for a short time. Please take simple precautions such as keeping garden tools secure in a locked garage or shed, setting a light timer in the evening, and avoid leaving valuable items such as laptops, cash and car keys in view of windows and doors.

Home security is the best way to reduce your chances of being burgled. Burglar alarms that are visible and good home lighting (both interior and exterior) in the right place can put burglars off from targeting your home.

Use timers for lights and radios if you need to be away from home overnight or when you are on holiday to create the impression that someone is home.

Fences that surround the back of your house may make this area more secure- We also recommend planting shrubs with prickly thorns.

We recommend using ‘Immobilise’ to register you valuable property. Using ‘Immobilise’ enables the police to check found stolen items against the register, giving us a greater chance of returning stolen property to its rightful owner. You can register items at www.immobilise.com.

If you would like any further information on securing your home, you can contact our crime reduction department on 101 or by replying to this email.

If you see anyone acting suspiciously or any other suspicious activity, or have any information you can make us aware by calling us on 101. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. If you witness a burglary in progress, or in an emergency, call us on 999.

Kind regards,

Cambridge City South NPT

2012 January news 2

January 19th, 2012

GOOD NEWS

We have recently affected a court warrant on a residential address within the Queen Ediths area. Based upon the information provided, we were able to follow this up by obtaining a misuse of drugs act warrant and were rewarded with the capture of a significant amount of illegal drugs and paraphernalia and stolen goods
All this was possible because of the assistance of the general public being vigilant in their own neighbourhoods and reporting suspicious behaviour.
This to be just the latest step in our crack down on persistent, habitual criminals in our area.

ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR:

Anti-social behaviour can mean a wide range of unacceptable activity including vandalism, drunken behaviour, drug dealing, fly-posting, nuisance neighbours and intimidating groups taking over public spaces. Anti-social behaviour can ruin lives and can often create an environment where more serious crime can take hold.

You can help the police and other agencies to tackle problems in your neighbourhood by reporting anti-social behaviour when you see it. By coming forward and reporting anti-social behaviour you may prevent the same problem happening again and you will help make your community a safer place. If you have any information, concerns or want to report anti-social behaviour occurring in your neighbourhood we want to hear from you.

We have had three burglaries since last Wednesday in the City South area, in

HULATT ROAD
10/01-12/01 Overnight
Unknown person(s) have gained entry to property by forcing rear patio doors , once inside property untidy search carried out in all downstairs rooms and bedrooms leaving in situ two laptops, one being brand new and taking only the digital camera.
Crime Scene Investigators attended.

FIELD WAY
13/01 – during the day/evening
Unknown person(s) have gained entry to property by jemmying the rear kitchen window open, entered premises and stolen jewellery. They have exited the same way as entering.
Crime Scene Investigators attended.

TOPCLIFFE WAY
17/01 – afternoon hours
Unknown person(s) have gained entry to property by forcing an insecure ground floor window into the living room. The window was only latched on the security latch so slightly open, unknown person(s) have pulled window to damage lock having climbed through the window, a tidy search conducted through both floors only opening draws and cupboards to look inside. Items have been removed from location and exit appears to be through same window as entry point.

Most burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves. In one quarter of all burglaries committed they don’t even have to use force – they get in through an open door or window.

Look at your home through the burglar’s eyes – are there places where they could break in unseen? Have you fitted strong locks on your windows? Would they have to make a lot of noise by breaking glass?

Take simple precautions such as locking windows and doors when you go out even if just stepping next door or out in the garden. Also use a light timer and do not leave large amounts of cash around your home.

Look at your house to identify places where you can deter the thief by improving the security.

Speak to your local crime reduction officer by calling 0345 456 456 4 or 101.

Crime reduction officers will happily give you advice over the phone or may visit your home if they think it necessary.

CYCLE CRIME:

There have been two thefts of pedal cycles in the areas of George IV Street and Walpole Road.

Don’t forget to register your cycle on WWW. IMMOBILISE.COM. Immobilise is free, it only takes a few minutes to complete and means that there is a greater chance of a stolen cycle being returned to it’s owner if it’s found.

Using ‘Immobilise’ enables the police to check the serial number of a cycle against the Immobilise database to track down the owner of the cycle. When using the site remember to record the frame number of the cycle and should you be unfortunate enough to have your cycle stolen, you will have a greater chance of us returning it to you if found. Immobilise can also be used to register other valuable items in your home.

When using your cycle, please bear in mind where you park it, making sure it is locked to something sturdy such as railings or bicycle rack. Remember to lock your bicycle through the back wheel and rear frame using a strong lock such as a ‘D’ lock. We don’t recommend cable locks as these are very easy to cut through and thieves can have your bicycle away in a matter of minutes.

VEHICLE CRIME:

There has been two vehicle crimes within the area of Cherry Hinton Road.

PLEASE make sure you do not leave any valuables on show as you are leaving yourself open to opportunists breaking into your vehicle. If you use a sat nav then please make sure you remove the holder and also wipe the window with a cloth to remove the suction ring marks. If you remove the sat nav but not the holder etc your vehicle could still be a target. If you have a garage or driveway then please use them alternatively try and park your vehicle in a well lit area as this will deter opportunists.

Please look out for our adverts for community surgeries as we do like meeting our residents on an informal basis.

Don’t forget you can let us know of any issues you have in the community by replying to this message.

Thank you for your continued support

PCSO 7290 Sarah Finbow

PS 0453 Jim Stevenson
PC 1059 John Sutton
PC 1752 Matt Smith
PC 0995 Phil Grime
PCSO 7137 Chris Blewett
PCSO 7023 Marie Bailey
PCSO 7073 Jamie Tumber

To contact Police:-
In an emergency always call 999
For all non-emergencies 0345 456 456 4 or 101
For property registering, visit www.immobilise .com

Crimestoppers
To give information anonymously
about crime. Call 0800 555 1

2012 January news

January 12th, 2012

Seems a very long time I heard anything from the police, but this has just come through!

We have had two burglaries since last Wednesday in the City South area, in

BEAUMONT ROAD
23/12 – 06/01 Overnight
Unknown person(s) have gained entry to an end terrace house by jemmying rear kitchen window, once inside evidence of a search, however nothing taken.
Crime Scene Investigators attended.

GLEBE ROAD
08/01 – 09/01 Overnight
Unknown person(s) have gained entry to an unoccupied student house via ground floor kitchen window, jewellery and two laptops taken from different rooms, enty has been gained by damaging wooden window frame, exit point unknown.
Crime Scene Investigators attended.

Home security is the best way to reduce your chances of being burgled. A lot of burglaries are spur of the moment, as a burglar may see an open window or other easy point of entry and take their chance.

Tips to avoid becoming a victim

• When you go out, always close and lock the external doors and windows – even if you are just going out for a short time.

• Try to get into the habit of double-checking window and door locks when you are going to bed too. Have you turned the key on doors that may have been unlocked during the day?

• Be careful with keys. Make sure you all know how to get out in case of fire, but be careful not leave keys, including spares, near the door or where they could be reached from outside. And try not to leave them in a garage or under a flowerpot!

• Installing new doors or windows? Make sure that they are certified to the appropriate British Standard (BS). The standard for windows is BS7950 and the standard for doors is PAS 24

• Put burglars off, Burglar alarms that are visible, good home lighting and security in the right place can put burglars off. Make sure that lights don’t disturb your neighbours and that burglar alarms turn off after 20 minutes.

• Use timers for lights and radios if you need to be away from home overnight or when you are on holiday. They will create the impression that someone is in.

• Visible burglar alarms, good lighting and carefully directed security lighting can put burglars off. But make sure that the lights don’t disturb your neighbours and that alarms turn off after 20 minutes.

• Fences at the back of the house may make this area more secure but walls and solid fencing may let a thief break in without being seen. A good compromise is chain-link fencing or trellis with prickly shrubs.

• Fitting a ‘spy hole’ allows you to see who is at the door. A door chain lets you open the door a little way to talk to the caller.

• Never leave garages or sheds unlocked, especially if they connect to your property.

CYCLE CRIME:

There have been six thefts of pedal cycles in the areas of Lensfield Road, Norwich Street, Orchard Estate, Purbeck Road, Spalding Way and Tillyard Way.

Don’t forget to register your cycle on WWW. IMMOBILISE.COM. Immobilise is free, it only takes a few minutes to complete and means that there is a greater chance of a stolen cycle being returned to it’s owner if it’s found.

Using ‘Immobilise’ enables the police to check the serial number of a cycle against the Immobilise database to track down the owner of the cycle. When using the site remember to record the frame number of the cycle and should you be unfortunate enough to have your cycle stolen, you will have a greater chance of us returning it to you if found. Immobilise can also be used to register other valuable items in your home.

When using your cycle, please bear in mind where you park it, making sure it is locked to something sturdy such as railings or bicycle rack. Remember to lock your bicycle through the back wheel and rear frame using a strong lock such as a ‘D’ lock. We don’t recommend cable locks as these are very easy to cut through and thieves can have your bicycle away in a matter of minutes.

VEHICLE CRIME:

There has been one vehicle crime within the area of Cavendish Avenue, Waitrose Hauxton Road, Worts Causeway, which were theft from a motor vehicles.

PLEASE make sure you do not leave any valuables on show as you are leaving yourself open to opportunists breaking into your vehicle. If you use a sat nav then please make sure you remove the holder and also wipe the window with a cloth to remove the suction ring marks. If you remove the sat nav but not the holder etc your vehicle could still be a target. If you have a garage or driveway then please use them alternatively try and park your vehicle in a well lit area as this will deter opportunists.

August news 2

August 25th, 2011

Burglary Update:

We have had 1 burglary since last Wednesday in the City South area, in

BLINCO GROVE
17/08 – Overnight
Uknown person(s) have gained entry to property by drilling front door lock and hae stolen a quantity of playstation games and bank cards. Exit via same entry route.
Crime Scene Investigators attended.

There have been six vehicle crimes in the areas of Drayton Road, Fulbourn Road, Harvey Road, Nightingale Avenue and Sunmead Walk, four being theft from motor vehicles and two of which were stolen motor vehicles.

Please make sure you do not leave any valuables on show as you are leaving yourself open to opportunists breaking into your vehicle. If you use a sat nav then please make sure you remove the holder and also wipe the window with a cloth to remove the suction ring marks. If you remove the sat nav but not the holder etc your vehicle could still be a target. If you have a garage or driveway then please use them alternatively try and park your vehicle in a well lit area as this will deter opportunists.

CYCLE CRIME
3 reports of cycles stolen this week
Babraham Road Park & Ride
Blinco Grove
Dunstan court

Remember to register your items on WWW. IMMOBILISE.COM, such as the lawn mower, bikes, power tools, in fact anything with a serial number .It only takes a few minutes, it’s free to register and is available nationwide.

Using ‘immobilise’ enables the police to check stolen items against the serial number and then find the registered owner. You can also upload your photographs of your personal belongings. You can find the frame number for your cycle situated on the frame of the cycle near to the pedals, or on some models the frame number will be on the stem of the handle bars or the stem of the saddle. Record this on this site and should you be unfortunate enough to have your cycle stolen, you will have a greater chance of us returning it to you if found. There is also a section where you can upload photos, so think about taking a digital photo of your cycle which will aid with identification.

Store your bicycles in a shed or garage if you have one, always make sure it is locked to something sturdy, i.e railings or bicycle rack, lock your bicycle through the back wheel, rear frame and to an object which can not be moved. by taking these simple steps, you are preventing your bicycle from being stolen.

Make sure you purchase a good lock for your bicycles, locks such as D locks and heavy duty chain locks are recommended, you can buy these from any bicycle shop. Please stay clear of combination locks and cable locks as these are very easy to cut through and thieves can have your bicycles away in a matter of minutes.

Please look out for our adverts for community surgeries as we do like meeting our residents on an informal basis.

Don’t forget you can let us know of any issues you have in the community by replying to this message.

Thank you for your continued support

PCSO 7290 Sarah Finbow

PS 0453 Jim Stevenson
PC 1059 John Sutton
PC 1752 Matt Smith
PC 0995 Phil Grime
PCSO 7064 David Jackson
PCSO 7307 Sally Mitchell
PCSO 7322 Daniel Richardson
PCSO 7073 Jamie Tumber
PCSO 7137 Chris Blewett

To contact Police:-
In an emergency always call 999
For all non-emergencies 0345 456 456 4
For property registering, visit www.immobilise .com

Crimestoppers
To give information anonymously
about crime. Call 0800 555 111

August news

August 10th, 2011

There has been a recent rise in moped nuisance on the Cherry Hinton ward, we are aware of the situation and will crack down on individuals seen causing residents grief and harrassment and riding with no due care or attention, if you have been affected by this and wish to report it to us then please ring in on 0345 456 456 4, please make sure you provide the registration of the moped so we are able to carry out enquiries.

Have you thought about setting up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme in your area? Do you want to help keep your community crime free and safe? You can do this by either becoming a Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator or helping by going along to the meetings and supporting the co-ordinator. If you would like more information on what is involved or how to set up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme then please let us know.

These schemes are a great for looking out for your neighbours and we are here to support you along the way. We are also happy to come along to your meetings to provide help and advice on crime prevention. With your help we can combat criminal activity together. Remember if you see anything suspicious please let us know as this could be the small piece of the jigsaw we have been looking for.

Burglary Update:

We’re pleased to report the southern area of the city has not had any burglaries this week – good news all round! Please can I ask you to remain security conscious and close and lock your doors and windows when you leave your property! If you notice anyone acting suspiciously please let the police know by contacting us on 0345 456 456 4.

PROTECTING YOUR HOME

Good home security, such as window and door locks, is the best way to reduce your chances of being burgled.

Quick tips

• Going out? Always close and lock the external doors and windows – even if you are just going out for a short time.

• Try to get into the habit of double-checking window and door locks when you are going to bed too. Have you turned the key on doors that may have been unlocked during the day?

• Be careful with keys. Make sure you all know how to get out in case of fire, but be careful not leave keys, including spares, near the door or where they could be reached from outside. And try not to leave them in a garage or under a flowerpot!

• Installing new doors or windows? Make sure that they are certified to the appropriate British Standard (BS). The standard for windows is BS7950 and the standard for doors is PAS 24

• Put burglars off, Burglar alarms that are visible, good home lighting and security in the right place can put burglars off. Make sure that lights don’t disturb your neighbours and that burglar alarms turn off after 20 minutes.

CYCLE CRIME
6 reports of cycles stolen this week
Baldock Way
Hills Avenue
George IV Street
Lensfield Road
St Bedes Crescent
The Orchards

Remember to register your items on WWW. IMMOBILISE.COM, such as the lawn mower, bikes, power tools, in fact anything with a serial number .It only takes a few minutes, it’s free to register and is available nationwide.

Using ‘immobilise’ enables the police to check stolen items against the serial number and then find the registered owner. You can also upload your photographs of your personal belongings. You can find the frame number for your cycle situated on the frame of the cycle near to the pedals, or on some models the frame number will be on the stem of the handle bars or the stem of the saddle. Record this on this site and should you be unfortunate enough to have your cycle stolen, you will have a greater chance of us returning it to you if found. There is also a section where you can upload photos, so think about taking a digital photo of your cycle which will aid with identification.

Store your bicycles in a shed or garage if you have one, always make sure it is locked to something sturdy, i.e railings or bicycle rack, lock your bicycle through the back wheel, rear frame and to an object which can not be moved. by taking these simple steps, you are preventing your bicycle from being stolen.

Make sure you purchase a good lock for your bicycles, locks such as D locks and heavy duty chain locks are recommended, you can buy these from any bicycle shop. Please stay clear of combination locks and cable locks as these are very easy to cut through and thieves can have your bicycles away in a matter of minutes.

Please look out for our adverts for community surgeries as we do like meeting our residents on an informal basis.

Thank you for your continued support

PCSO 7290 Sarah Finbow

PS 0453 Jim Stevenson
PC 1059 John Sutton
PC 1752 Matt Smith
PC 0995 Phil Grime
PCSO 7064 David Jackson
PCSO 7307 Sally Mitchell
PCSO 7073 Jamie Tumber
PCSO 7137 Chris Blewett

To contact Police:-
In an emergency always call 999
For all non-emergencies 0345 456 456 4
For property registering, visit www.immobilise .com

Crimestoppers
To give information anonymously
about crime. Call 0800 555 111

May news and advice

May 28th, 2011

Burglary Update:

We have had 1 burglary since last Wednesday in the City South area. This occured in Chaucer Road during the afternoon or evening on saturday 21st May. An insecure detached premises was entered and 2 items of jewellery were stolen from an upstairs room. Crime scence investigators attended and enquiries are continuing.

Please taken all reaonsable steps to secure your homes and property. For further information please follow the link below.

CYCLE CRIME

4 reports of stolen cycles were received this week:
Addenbrookes
Binco Grove
Claygate Road
Mander Way

Remember to register your items on WWW. IMMOBILISE.COM, such as the lawn mower, bikes, power tools, in fact anything with a serial number .It only takes a few minutes, it’s free to register and is available nationwide.

Using ‘immobilise’ enables the police to check stolen items against the serial number and then find the registered owner. You can also upload your photographs of your personal belongings. You can find the frame number for your cycle situated on the frame of the cycle near to the pedals, or on some models the frame number will be on the stem of the handle bars or the stem of the saddle. Record this on this site and should you be unfortunate enough to have your cycle stolen, you will have a greater chance of us returning it to you if found. There is also a section where you can upload photos, so think about taking a digital photo of your cycle which will aid with identification.

Store your bicycles in a shed or garage if you have one, always make sure it is locked to something sturdy, i.e railings or bicycle rack, lock your bicycle through the back wheel, rear frame and to an object which can not be moved. by taking these simple steps, you are preventing your bicycle from being stolen.

Make sure you purchase a good lock for your bicycles, locks such as D locks and heavy duty chain locks are recommended, you can buy these from any bicycle shop. Please stay clear of combination locks and cable locks as these are very easy to cut through and thieves can have your bicycles away in a matter of minutes.

Don’t forget you can let us know of any issues you have in the community by replying to this message.

Thank you for your continued support

PCSO 7290 Sarah Finbow

March 2011 news and advice

March 24th, 2011

GLEBE ROAD
18/03 Morning to midday
Unknown person(s) have gained entry via rear kitchen door using a screwdriver, items which have been taken are a laptop, digital camera, jewellery and hairdresser equipment.
Crime Scene Investigators have attended
One person has been arrested for this offence
Enquiries are ongoing

Most burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves. In one quarter of all burglaries committed they don’t even have to use force – they get in through an open door or window.

Look at your home through the burglar’s eyes – are there places where they could break in unseen? Have you fitted strong locks on your windows? Would they have to make a lot of noise by breaking glass?

Take simple precautions such as locking windows and doors when you go out even if just stepping next door or out in the garden. Also use a light timer and do not leave large amounts of cash around your home.

Look at your house to identify places where you can deter the thief by improving the security.

Speak to your local crime reduction officer by calling 0345 456 456 4.

Crime reduction officers will happily give you advice over the phone or may visit your home if they think it necessary.

You can much reduce your risk of burglary by the following measures.

(1) If you are going out in the evening leave at least one light on and curtains drawn.

(2) Don’t draw curtains during the day – this simply advertises the fact that you are out.

(3) Don’t make it easy for burglars to get to the rear of your house. If you have a side gate keep it locked. If you don’t have a side gate at all, install one at least six feet high.

(4) Don’t leave windows open when you are not at home.

(5) Consider security lighting – this is now a very affordable option.

(6) If you have small items of valuable jewellery – keep then hidden. At least then if the worst happens the burglars may not find them.

If you see anyone hanging around who you think is suspicious call the police immediately. We will always treat such calls very seriously and if it turns out to be a completely innocent person we won’t mind a bit and hopefully neither will they! But remember, crime levels in Trumpington are still very low – so don’t have nightmares!

CYCLE CRIME

I am pleased to report that we have received no reports of pedal cycle theft since last Wednesday.

Think about registering your valuables on the property registering site IMMOBILISE.COM.
It is easy to make a note of the frame number of your cycle on this site and this will make it easier to identify your cycle should it come into Police property. IMMOBILISE.COM is used by Police forces nationwide to carry out checks on property that come into our possession.
Use the site to register anything with a serial number, which includes mobile phones, as they have their own unique IMEI number. This number does not change even if you replace the SIM card. To find the IMEI number press *#06# (star hash 06 hash).
All other valuables without a serial number /identification mark can be photographed and added this way.

Saturday 16th April will be the next community surgery, held at Waitrose Hauxton Road Trumpington between 2-4 pm. Please pop along and see us to discuss any local issues.

CAR SECURITY

Lock the doors, and close windows and sun roof when you leave the car for any length of time.

Don’t leave anything on display – even a jacket can be an appealing target for a thief.

Remove the stereo if you can.

Remove satelite navigation devices where possible, including the support cradle and suction pad. Wipe away any suction pad marks left on the windscreen or dashboard.

Tuck in wing mirrors and put the aerial down to discourage vandalism.

Never store your your car’s documents in the car.

A thatcham-compliant immobiliser or steering lock can help secure older cars.

Think about having the windows etched with the car’s registration number or the last seven digits of the vehicle identification number (VIN), or some other unique indentifying number linked to a recognised database.

Keep your car keys out of sight, even in your house, so that someone breaking in cannot steal your car too.

Locks or other security devices are always great way to secure your car and put off would-be thieves.

Mechanical immobilisers, such as steering-wheel locks, are good alternative to electronic immobilisers. They are not expensive and are easy to fit yourself.

Fit locking wheel nuts, as wheels are often a target for car thieves. Wheel nuts are not expensive and are easy to fit.

An alarm can help to keep your car secure but it must be installed professionally to be effective.

DRIVING

Keep your car in good condition and make sure you have enough petrol to complete your journey.

Park in well-lit or busy areas whenever possible. If you park during the day, think about what the area will feel like after dark.

Where possible, use car parks approved under the police Safer Parking Scheme. A list of approved car parks can be found at www.saferparking.com

Please look out for our adverts for community surgeries as we do like meeting our residents on an informal basis.

Thank you for your continued support

PCSO 7290 Sarah Finbow

Yellow Pages delivery

March 5th, 2011

These will be delivered over a two week period from 9th March. Deliverers have instructions not to leave the volumes in conspicuous locations.

Advice from the police and recent news

March 5th, 2011

We have had 2 burglaries since last Wednesday in the City South area, in

LEETE ROAD
25/02 – 26//02 Overnight
Unknown person(s) have gained entry via ground floor rear kitchen window, which had been left open, untidy search of flat, cash and a set of six chefs straight bladed stainless steel knives were taken.
Crime Scene Investigators attended.

HULATT ROAD
01/03 Daylight hours
Unknown person(s) have gained via insecure upstairs bedroom window, no visible damage, apparaently used roof of front door porch to gaine access to window, untidy search of premises.3 Laptops, nokia mobile phone, sony erricson walkman, amazon kindle, kodak camera, jewellery and cash were taken.
Crime Scene Investigators attended.
Enquiries ongoing

You can much reduce your risk of burglary by the following measures.

(1) If you are going out in the evening leave at least one light on and curtains drawn.

(2) Don’t draw curtains during the day – this simply advertises the fact that you are out.

(3) Don’t make it easy for burglars to get to the rear of your house. If you have a side gate keep it locked. If you don’t have a side gate at all, install one at least six feet high.

(4) Don’t leave windows open when you are not at home.

(5) Consider security lighting – this is now a very affordable option.

(6) If you have small items of valuable jewellery – keep then hidden. At least then if the worst happens the burglars may not find them.

If you see anyone hanging around who you think is suspicious call the police immediately. We will always treat such calls very seriously and if it turns out to be a completely innocent person we won’t mind a bit and hopefully neither will they!

Most burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves. In one quarter of all burglaries committed they don’t even have to use force – they get in through an open door or window.

Look at your home through the burglar’s eyes – are there places where they could break in unseen? Have you fitted strong locks on your windows? Would they have to make a lot of noise by breaking glass?

Take simple precautions such as locking windows and doors when you go out even if just stepping next door or out in the garden. Also use a light timer and do not leave large amounts of cash around your home.

Look at your house to identify places where you can deter the thief by improving the security.

Speak to your local crime reduction officer by calling 0345 456 456 4.

Crime reduction officers will happily give you advice over the phone or may visit your home if they think it necessary.

CYCLE CRIME

4 reports of cycles stolen this week:
Panton Street
Cambridge Railway Station
Adrian Way
Rectory Terrace

Remember to register your items on WWW. IMMOBILISE.COM, such as the lawn mower, bikes, power tools, in fact anything with a serial number .It only takes a few minutes, is free to register and is available nationwide.This enables the police to check stolen items against the serial number and then find the registered owner. You can also upload your photographs of your personal belongings.

Here are some useful security tips to make your car secure

Don’t leave anything on display in your car. Even an old coat on the back seat is temptation for someone to ‘smash and grab’ – they steal first and think about value later.

Take all your belongings with you when you leave the car. Never leave any of the following on display in your car as they are all particularly attractive to car thieves. Mobile phones, laptop computers, Satellite Navigation Systems, credit and debit cards, cash, vehicle registration documents and private mail, especially with your address on it.

Locks or other security devices are always great way to secure your car and put off would-be thieves.

Mechanical immobilisers, such as steering-wheel locks, are good alternative to electronic immobilisers. They are not expensive and are easy to fit yourself.

Fit locking wheel nuts, as wheels are often a target for car thieves. Wheel nuts are not expensive and are easy to fit.

An alarm can help to keep your car secure but it must be installed professionally to be effective.

Thank you for your continued support

PCSO 7290 Sarah Finbow