Monthly Article Scheme- June 07

Peace of Mind While You’re Away on Holiday

Everyone needs a holiday some time. And however much we like our homes, there is nothing like a change of scenery.

 But we all want to come home and find everything as we left it. Almost half of all burglaries happen when a flat or house is empty. By following these tips, you can help to make your home more secure while you are away. Tick off the items before you go.

Before you go 

-       Make your home look like someone is living in it. Don’t Close your curtains- in daytime this shows the house is empty. Use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights on when it goes dark.

-       Cancel any milk or newspaper deliveries.

-       Avoid discussing holiday plans where strangers may hear details of your absence from home.

-       Cut the lawn before you go and trim back any plants that burglars could hide behind.

-       Uncollected mail is a sign that you are away. The Royal Mail’s ‘Keepsafe’ service will keep your mail for up to two months while you are away.

-       Consider leaving important documents and valuable items with other family members or a bank. Or, lock them in a safe.

-       Do not put your home address on your luggage when you are travelling to your holiday destination.

-       If you normally leave valuable pedal cycles or similar items in your shed, consider putting them in the house- out of sight.

-       Finally, make sure that you’ve locked all outside doors and windows and, if you have a burglar alarm, make sure it is set.

 Don’t forget your passport and tickets!

 Help from your neighbours

 It’s a good idea to get help from your neighbours. You could ask them to collect post, open and close the curtains, mow the lawn. They could even occasionally park their car on your driveway, or put your wheelie bin out. Anything to make the place look lived in.

 Let your neighbour know when you will be away and, if you can, give them details so that they can contact you, or someone who can act on your behalf in an emergency.

 Is there a Neighbourhood Watch where you live?  Visit www.northants.police.uk to learn more or call 08453 700 700 and ask to speak to the Community Watch Liaison Officer.

 Have a great holiday on behalf of Northamptonshire Police.

 Car Key Burglaries On Increase In County (May 2007)

 CAR key burglaries in Northamptonshire have been increasing since the end of January.

A total of 28 car key burglaries have been reported during the last month, compared to 18 during the previous reporting period – although the April figure is still substantially below the 45 burglaries committed in April 2006.

The west of the county, Northampton in particular, is mainly affected with 24 of the offences reported being on the Northamptonshire West policing area.

Of the 30 vehicles stolen, 22 were recovered – 19 of these still within the county boundary.

Police are urging householders to make sure their valuable items are secure at all times with the message ‘they’re not called locks for nothing’.

The countywide advertising campaign is encouraging people to think more about how they can prevent themselves and others from becoming a victim.

Car keys are not regarded as valuables but of course can literally provide the key that unlocks a treasure trove for an opportunist burglar.

When leaving your car at your home overnight always ensure that it, and the car keys, are housed securely.

Householders with vehicles should ensure the following:-

· Remove all valuable items from the car – don’t stow them away in the boot or glovebox
· This includes music systems and satnavs, including their fixtures and fittings
· Lock your car at all times
· If at home, park your car in a garage if this is possible
· If your car is in a garage, lock the garage – and lock the car!
· House the car keys in a secure place within your home
· Don’t leave car keys on view where they may serve as a temptation for opportunist thieves
· Keep your keys out of view, in a cupboard or chest of drawers within your home
· The same applies to house keys – don’t leave them lying or hanging around
· Put your house and car keys away safely. Never leave them in the door or where they can be easily seen or reached by intruders

Detective Chief Inspector Eddie Silber, crime manager for Northamptonshire Police, said: “We are urging everyone to ensure their homes and garages are secure at all times. They are not called locks for nothing.

“Lock all doors and windows, even when you are at home, and in particular make sure all keys are well hidden and cannot be seen or reached through any doors or windows.

“Just taking another minute or so to enhance the security of your home and car can prevent long hours of heartache and inconvenience.”

Anyone with any information about crime or criminals is asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 08453 700700 or, if you want to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

  Cat Flap Burglars On The Prowl (May 2007)

Cat owners are being warned about the latest method being used by burglars to get into people’s homes – reaching through cat flaps to get keys from the inside of doors.

Posters and leaflets are being delivered to supermarkets across the Northampton area – hoping to target people as they buy their cat food – urging them never to leave keys in doors, or on view, or easily accessible inside homes.

Community Safety Officer for the Northamptonshire West Police Area, Kate Wright, who is co-ordinating this crime prevention campaign, said: "There have been a number of burglaries in the Northampton area recently where offenders have simply reached through cat flaps to access keys and then get into the homes, mostly looking for car keys and then stealing cars.

"Cat owners, and indeed all householders, need to keep doors locked at all times, even when you are at home, take keys out of doors and hide them.

CRIME DOWN ACROSS NORTHAMPTONSHIRE (April 2007)

Crime has fallen across Northamptonshire for the fourth successive year, meaning thousands fewer victims of crime.

In the past year (1 April 2006 - 31 March 2007) Northamptonshire Police has seen total crime drop by 3.1 per cent, or 2,100 fewer recorded crimes, on the back of a 7.9 per cent decrease in crime the previous year (05-06).

Alongside the reduction in crime countywide, both policing areas of the county – Northamptonshire West (covering Northampton, Daventry and South Northants) and Northamptonshire North (covering Kettering, Corby, Wellingborough and East Northants) have also seen a drop in crime, with a 3.4 per cent drop and 2.6 per cent reduction respectively.

Most categories of crime countywide have fallen too, including house burglary (DOWN 4.3 per cent), robbery (DOWN 3 per cent), sexual offences (DOWN 8.7 per cent), violence (DOWN 3.6 per cent), theft of motor vehicles (DOWN 5.7 per cent) and criminal damage (DOWN 1.9 per cent). The only slight increases were in theft from motor vehicles (1.4 per cent) and drug offences (0.4 per cent or 6 crimes).

Northamptonshire’s Assistant Chief Constable Alan Featherstone said: “Tremendous efforts have been made by officers and staff throughout the Force working closely with our partners, which has resulted in a fall in crime year on year since 2003.

“The roll out of Safer Community Teams across the county, which are dedicated teams of officers working with local people and partners, has undoubtedly helped prevent and detect crime and anti-social behaviour and reassure the public.

“There have also been a number of high profile operations targeting specific crimes or hotspot areas that has helped bring overall crime down.

“However we must not be complacent and everyone has a responsibility to help keep crime down in the county. One of the areas where there has been an increase is theft from motor vehicles – this could so easily be prevented by people removing valuables from vehicles.”

Chief Superintendent Paul Phillips, Commander of the Northamptonshire West area, said: “Officers and staff have been working flat out to bring crime down meaning there have been 1,318 fewer crimes and therefore fewer victims on the Northamptonshire West area over the past year.

“A particular area of success has been a reduction in violent crimes, with 353 fewer incidents this year, as we continue our work to make our towns and villages safer places for people to live in, work in and socialise in.

“Burglary remains a challenge with 1 in 4 of all house burglaries down to insecurities, and I would remind people of the importance of locking up at all times, including when you are at home. Some people are also still leaving valuables, such as sat nav systems in vehicles, which provide rich pickings for offenders, so the message is remove it, don’t lose it.

“Last but not least, I would like to thank members of the public for their support to date, and urge them to continue to work with us and our partners into this year to help make the county even safer.” 

To view crime statistics in detail visit www.northants.police/beatstats

 CRIMESTOPPERS (April 2007)

 Crimestoppers enables people to get information passed to the police without revealing their identity. It doesn’t matter why they wish to remain anonymous. All information is valuable and can lead directly to offenders being arrested and charged

 Nationally, 17 people are arrested and charged every day, and 1 person every 8 days is arrested for murder, thanks to callers to Crimestoppers.

 When you call Crimestoppers

 ·        We don’t want your name…ever

·        We can’t trace your calls

·        We don’t record your call

·        You don’t have to go to Court

 With your help, we can tackle the burglary, car crime and criminal damage that you know about only too well to make your community a safer and more pleasant place to live.

 MINI MOTOS AND THE LAW (January 2007)

 DID Santa bring someone you know a mini moto or another form or motorised recreational transport?

If so, please read the small print of the rules and regulations covering these gifts before taking them out onto the streets and public spaces.

Community action team officer Lee Flavell, who works in east Northampton, has a seasonal message to youngsters who may have found a mini moto, go-ped, petrol scooter, micro-scooter or a mini dirt bike under the tree.

He said: “These trendy bikes and scooters will doubtless have been top of the wish list for many youngsters this Christmas.

“But these machines are much more than toys and are capable of speeds up to 25mph, indeed mini motos can reach speeds up to 65mph.

“They are all in fact motor vehicles and must meet construction and use regulations. This applies to both petrol and battery machines.”

Anyone riding a mini moto or similar in a public place or on a public road, including the grass verge, without the relevant driving documents and certificates would be liable to prosecution under the Road Traffic Act.

On conviction, a rider may be subjected to a fine or even a disqualification from driving.

PC Flavell added: “Owners and riders should be aware that it is an offence to driver a motorised scooter or mini moto on a public footpath.

“Local by-laws also prevent these machines from being ridden in most public parks and on common land. If they are used on private land, permission from the landowner is required.”

The legislation was introduced to prevent nuisance use of these vehicles in public places and police can seize and ultimately crush offending vehicles in given circumstances.

Owners and riders of these machines are asked to consider the potential consequences of their use.

The only legal option is to ride them on private land with the permission of the landowner.

HOW TO CUT YOUR RISK FROM VEHICLE CRIME (January 2007)

 Theft from vehicles is a preventable crime – leave nothing in your car and there is nothing for the criminal to take.

Top tips to beat vehicle crime are:

 HIGH TECH THEFTS -

The latest in-car technology gadgets are the latest temptation for criminals in the county.

As this new technology becomes more widespread, police are again reminding people to remove everything they can from their car when they leave the vehicle – and never be tempted to leave items in the boot or glove box.

Force Community Safety Advisor Mike Franklin said: “New technological advances always bring new opportunities for criminals and satellite navigation systems, particularly the new removable systems, are becoming increasingly popular items for car criminals to steal.

“But if a criminal can remove them, so can the owner and the secret to preventing this crime is to remove the item before the thief gets the chance.”

Mike said that motorists should always detach these systems wherever possible and remove them from the vehicle completely. Items left in the boot or in the glove box remain vulnerable to theft.

Stamp Out Hate Crimes (December 2006)

A Hate Crime or Incident is an action, which is perceived by the victim or any other person, as being motivated by prejudice or hate.  These types of crimes are particularly hurtful to victims as they are being targeted purely because of their personal identity, actual or perceived racial or ethnic origin, religion or faith, sexuality, gender or disability.

 Northamptonshire Police is fully committed to tackling the causes and effects of hate crimes.  In order to do this there are dedicated Hate Crime Officers and a support worker, who can provide a confidential, professional and understanding service.  It is incredibly important that such crimes are reported to either the Police or an official body, such as the Council or Victim Support, so that even if you do not want any further action taken, we can gain information and build a clear picture of the extent hate crime in Northamptonshire and identify possible offenders. Just by making a report, you may help to stop more incidents and help other victims.

There are many different ways to report hate crimes and incidents. This includes the option to remain completely anonymous. All details will be treated in the strictest confidence and we are guided by the victim as to what action we take.  You can contact Northamptonshire Police by

Ø       Telephone on 08453 700700 (ext 2664 to contact the Hate Crimes Unit)

Ø       Self-reporting packs, which can be found in most libraries, doctor’s surgeries or from local police stations. 

Ø       Online at www.online.police.uk

Ø       Via a support agency such as Ability Northants or the NLGBA

Ø       You can even report on behalf of a friend, relative or even someone you do not know the name of, using all of the above methods.

It is of vital importance that all hate incidents and crimes are reported so we can all work together in stamping out Hate Crime

Don't Tempt the Christmas Criminal (November 2006)

Police across the county are reminding motorists not to tempt the Christmas criminals by being careless with their shopping.
 
It is easy to forget about the normal security steps that should be taken during the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping, but it’s also the time of year when shoppers are buying more goods and more valuable items.

Now police are reminding people not to bring packages back to the car and set off shopping again – thieves know that people do this and could well be watching out for a likely target. 

Northampton Community Safety Officer Kate Wright said: “At this time of year people will often take things they have bought back to their vehicles and then carry on to do more shopping – it might be convenient but just don’t be tempted. 

“Thefts from cars can be prevented simply by people taking all property with them on leaving their vehicle. Our advice is simple - don’t leave items on display and don’t lock them in your boot either, as this is an obvious hiding place that criminals are well aware of.

“Our advice is always ‘Check, Remove, Secure’ - Check that you have not left any belongings in your vehicle. If you have, remove them, and then secure the vehicle by locking doors, windows and the boot.”

In Northampton, people are advised to park in the Park Mark car parks, which are accredited as having numerous security features. There are nine car parks in Northampton that have the Park Mark, an award that is issued by the Association of Chief Police Officers.

Shoppers are also reminded not to let crime ruin their festivities at home as Northamptonshire Police issue their annual advice to help beat the Christmas burglar.

With the festive holidays just around the corner the seasonal warning comes at a time of year when domestic burglaries often rise as burglars target homes they believe will be full of presents.

As part of their Christmas message, officers are reminding residents to keep security a priority over the festivities and remove all temptation out of sight from prying eyes as all valuables are a gift to a burglar - not just the ones beautifully wrapped.

A lapse in security is the perfect gift for a burglar, who will only be too happy to take the opportunity to help themselves to your property, in particular small portable items such as electrical goods, jewellery, bags, money and of course, car keys.

Special operations are currently running across the Force to clampdown on burglaries, which have been supported by both high-visible and covert patrols and the use of the Mobile Police Station, where people can pick up crime prevention advice.

Daventry Community Safety Officer Mick Downing said: “Burglars know there are rich pickings to be had at this time of year as many houses are stuffed full of presents and because it is dark so early burglars can easily spot when someone is not home.”

Community Safety Officers from across the Force have urged residents to take simple steps to ensure their property stays safe during the festivities, which includes:

Switch On To Home Security This Winter (September 2006)

WITH the dark nights drawing in, Northamptonshire Police are urging residents to check their security and lightening arrangements in time for the clocks going back on Sunday October 29.

The Community Safety Department has issued the timely reminder to all householders across the county to check internal and external home lightening security devices to coincide with the end of British summer time.

Residents are being urged to set up and test external security lights now the nights are lengthening, alter internal automatic timer switches and to remember to put the clocks back an hour.

Force Community Safety Manager Graham Daly, said: “This is the time of year to really be aware of your security as burglars prefer the cover of darkness, so when the clocks go back, burglaries can go up.

 “With a little bit of extra care, many of these burglaries can be easily prevented. The most important thing is to look like you’re at home even when your out – a burglar is a lot less likely to target a house that looks occupied.”

Residents should be more aware of the simple security steps they can take to ensure their property. These include:

Residents are also reminded to always lock their vehicles even if it’s kept inside an alarmed garage. If vehicles have to be left outside park them in a well-lit area where other residents or members of the public can easily see them.
 
Mr Daly also advised residents to consider joining or setting up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, which can deter burglaries, vehicle crime and criminal damage, and in some cases also reduce household insurance premiums.

 Anyone who would like further information on home security or Neighbourhood Watch Scheme is asked to contact the Northamptonshire West Community Safety Departments on 08453 700 700.

Immobilise Those New Christmas Goodies! (August 2006)

You can “Immobilise” crime by adding your property’s unique IMEI or serial number to a national register which, if stolen,  can help you get it back if it is recovered by police.

Members of the public can register their property such as electrical goods, laptops and mobile phones, free of charge, at www.immobilise.com