News and Events 

Be bright and invest in a light timer switch this winter

Thursday 06 October 2011, 4:53pm

Thames Valley Police is working in partnership with Local Authorities across the Thames Valley to keep you safe as the darker nights draw in.

People across the Thames Valley can pick up security advice from one of the Thames Valley Police twitter sites, watch a video on youtube about the importance of not leaving their house in the dark, or receive a letter from their neighbourhood team informing residents about patrols in their area.

Ch Supt David Lewis, Head of Neighbourhood Policing and Partnerships said: “People who work full time, and usually leave and return from work in the dark are more likely to fall victim of opportunist burglars.

“It is vital that we engage with these people and this year we will be encouraging people to look at our twitter sites to receive their information. Officers will be promoting the pages at train stations and bus stations by handing out business cards so that commuters can take a look at the tweets when they get on the train.

“We will also be using businesses in the area to ensure our message gets out to their staff.”

Neighbourhood teams will also be patrolling in burglary hot spot areas and leaving calling cards at people’s homes if they come across a house in darkness to ensure the occupants receive some crime prevention tips.

If no light is on in your home, curtains are not drawn, and no car is in the drive, it’s an obvious sign to an opportunist burglar that no-one is in. At this time of the year more than any other it pays to secure your home.

There are a number of simple and free ways to do this, all of which will help reduce the chance of your home becoming the next target.

  • Visit a local retailer to pick up a 24 hour segment timer for under £5. The timer can be used with a lamp, radio or TV to give the impression that someone’s home. Remember to use an energy efficient light bulb
  • Register your valuables on www.immobilise.com its free and takes just a few minutes and if your valuables are stolen, will allow you to tell the police, your insurer, and the second-hand trade to assist in recovering your property and catch the thief
  • Keep valuables out of sight

Look your doors and windows, if you have a UPVC door make sure you have double locked it

You can also follow us on Twitter @_ThamesVP alternatively you can give us a ‘like’ on Facebook (opens new window)

For regular updates on crime and disorder in your area you can sign up to Community Messaging

For further crime reduction advice you can speak to a Crime Reduction Adviser via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505.

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