Police remind Hemel residents to keep their homes secure from opportunist thieves this festive season

During December police are reminding residents in Hertfordshire not to present an opportunity to thieves and keep their homes and valuables secure by following some simple crime prevention tips.

At this time of year there is often an increase in burglaries and in the last two weeks police say reports have risen in Welwyn Hatfield (+24) and Broxbourne (+12).

Inspector Nicki Dean, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Crime Reduction Unit, said: “At this time of year everyone is busy buying gifts and preparing for Christmas and with the pandemic many are stockpiling gifts early.

“Father Christmas isn’t the only one trying to get into homes at this time of year, so don’t be complacent.

"Criminals know that homes, sheds and cars are full of gifts and they will be on the lookout for opportunities to steal them.

"Leaving gifts in outbuildings or in cars makes them more accessible to thieves. If you leave anything valuable on view either at home or in the car, you may be presenting a thief with an opportunity.”

Hertfordshire Police has issued the following advice:

- Make sure you keep all your gifts in a secure place – don’t leave them in the shed or garage, or on view near windows or doors

- Lock up when you leave – make sure all windows and doors are securely locked when you leave the house or go up to bed

- Security marking and registering your children’s Christmas gifts will help to keep them safe and make them easier to return if they are lost or stolen

- When out shopping push your purse to the bottom of your bag and zip it securely, wallets should not be carried in back pockets

- Consider installing a door bell camera, internal camera and/or monitored burglar alarm

- Install ‘dusk to dawn’ external lighting and use timer switches in your home to control internal lights, radios and a simulated TV

- Keep keys and valuables secure and out of sight

- Ensure boundary fences are secure with side gates locked. Keep tools and ladders in a locked shed

- Secure bins at night and put garden furniture away for the winter as these can be used by burglars as climbing aids to gain access to upper floor windows

- Ensure your vehicle is locked and remove all valuables as burglars often check to see if doors are left unlocked.

For alerts and advice join Hertfordshire’s Neighbourhood Watch for alerts and advice:

For more crime prevention advice visit: www.herts.police.uk/protectyourhome.

You can report suspicious activity in your area or information online or by calling 101.