Bracknell

Police in Bracknell are again warning residents about a series of house burglaries across the area in recent weeks that all have a common factor.

John Oblein, Crime Reduction Adviser for Bracknell local police area, said: “Homes are being targeted by burglars who know an easy way in. The burglars have targeted replacement front doors, that means those with several locking points into the door frame and with a letterbox located close to the lock. The thieves are either reaching for the inside handle using a tool and opening the door, or fishing for keys through the letterbox with a long implement.

“Residents may feel they are safe at night in their own homes, but unless the key is turned fully to set the deadlock, the door is not secure. Of course this applies to any other external door, not just the front door. If you have these deadlocks fitted, you must turn the key to keep the burglar out.

“Car keys can be a target, but the thieves will search for other valuables that they can carry away. Be warned that some home insurance policies may be invalid if the door is not locked properly.

“If you have a burglar alarm already, you should know that they have different zones that can be switched on or off independently. This means that the house can be alarmed downstairs while the residents sleep in another zone which is not activated.

“If you have concerns about fire safety in the home, especially about unlocking doors in an emergency, it is possible to plan your escape route and have access to keys that will enable you to get out of the house quickly and safely. Smoke detectors are an essential part of your home kit. Visit www.rbfrs.co.uk/fs_localfiresafety.asp or call the helpline on 0118 932 2152 for further home fire safety advice.”

For more advice on home security, contact Bracknell police area’s crime reduction advisers Everett Bentley on 01344 823483 and John Oblein on 01344 823482, or visit www.crimereduction.gov.uk

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell