Spring and Summer Security

North Wales Police are urging residents to keep their homes, cars and property secure during the spring and summer months.

With the clocks going forward and the evenings getting lighter, people's homes can be particularly vulnerable. As the warmer weather increases, so does the temptation to leave windows and doors open during the day and night – which is why homeowners across North Wales are being urged to remain security conscious in the months ahead. keys

It is important that people remain security conscious and maintain their personal security so criminals don't exploit the opportunities associated with this time of the year such as, open windows, unlocked patio doors, doors left ajar and garden equipment on display.

It is often the case too that during warm weather, vehicle owners aren't as careful to secure their cars - leaving windows or a sunroof open which can make it very easy for opportunist thieves to steal valuable items such as sat-nav systems, phones, sunglasses, and even handbags or clothing that may be left on show inside.

North Wales Police would urge all car owners to check their car windows and doors are fully locked and secure before leaving it unattended.

Advice to residents

Residents are being urged take of the following crime reduction advice:

Make sure that all windows are closed and locked, even when you are at home or in the garden. Use the security measures on modern windows, which allow them to let some air in but are still locked.
Only have ground floor windows open if you are to be in that room for a period of time.
Do not leave upstairs windows open when you are going out.
Always lock your front door from inside - in particular UPVc front doors are often left unlocked when people are in their house.
Do not leave back doors open or unlocked if you are to be upstairs for any length of time.
Keep all valuables out of the line of sight of prying eyes, never put car keys or purses on window-sills or in view of a window or door. Always avoid keeping large amounts of cash in your house.
Lock away all your garden tools and equipment including ladders. Secure your shed and garage properly.
Use a good quality padlock on a back gate.
When going on holiday make sure milk deliveries are cancelled, post is collected and if possible get friends or family to check on your property.
Do not leave valuables or equipment on display in your car - take valuables with you or lock them away. Even a pair of sunglasses on show can be appealing to a would-be thief.

For more information on home security visit our advice and support section.

Residents are being reminded to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to police. If you see anyone acting suspiciously, call North Wales Police on 999 if it is an emergency or dial101. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.