Working together to keep your home secure as the clocks change

Hi Resident,

The clocks change at 1am tomorrow morning (Sunday).

Longer evenings and (hopefully) better weather to come.

Maybe it’s a moment to think about your security at home.

Better weather can mean more open windows and doors and more opportunities for thieves.

We’re working hard to keep communities safe using targeted operations, regular patrols and the specialist help of our dedicated burglary investigation team, Operation Maze.

And you can help us to help you as Spring arrives: 

Don’t leave doors and windows open unattended and try not to leave valuables like keys close to open windows.

If you need to leave windows open at night, you might want to consider fitting restrictors to prevent them being fully opened.

If you’re going on holiday for Easter,  think before you post and avoid advertising to criminals on social media that your home is empty.

Lock up garden equipment at night so it can’t be stolen or used to break in.

And don't forget our top tips for securing your property all the year round:
• Fit good quality deadlocks that bear the British Standard kitemark to all exterior doors and use them
• Fit window locks on all windows
• If you have a burglar alarm, set it when you go out and to bed
• Ensure your house and car keys are put in a safe place and not visible from outside. Some crimes are committed by keys being hooked through the letterbox
• Prevent keyless vehicle theft by storing keys in a faraday pouch or container
• Double lock front doors when going out or going to bed so that they can’t be ‘popped’ open
• Going out? Consider turning on your radio or TV and leave a light on so it seems as if someone is at home
• Lock sheds and outhouses securely so thieves don’t have easy access to tools to get into your property

Report suspicious activity

In an emergency, always call 999. 

Seen something? Heard Something? Report it! Your knowledge is our power.

By reporting what you know, we can builder a better picture of crime in your area and take action. Visit: www.beds.police.uk/ro

Do you know someone involved in criminality? Is there an address you would like to report? 

You can report anonymously via Crimestoppers. It's not about who you are, but what you know. Visit: crimestoppers-uk.org or call 0800 555 111

Did you know you can purchase security marking kits from Immobilise to mark your phone, headphones and other valuables?

Once marked, you can register your items via www.immobilise.com which increases the chances of your belongings being returned to you if lost or stolen.

We're working #TogetherForBedfordshire!

That means collaborating with partners across the community to ensure our county remains a safe and welcome place to live, work, visit and shop.

You can find out more on our website: Together For Bedfordshire | Bedfordshire Police