Here's A Bright Idea....Leave A Light On 

Now that the nights have drawn in, residents need to remember that a house left in darkness is an easy target for burglars.

Timer switches on lamp lights in the lounge, bedroom and hallways are a great deterrent for when residents plan to return home after dark or are away for a length of time.

Last winter 177 burglaries were recorded in South Bucks between 1st October 2010 and 31st January 2011, including 28 attempted burglaries where property had not been stolen.

To help raise awareness amongst residents members of South Bucks District Council’s Community Safety team and Thames Valley Police have recently undertaken crime reduction work in Burnham and Farnham Royal by promoting Neighbourhood Watch in areas that are not currently running a scheme and will continue to be at locations across South Bucks handing out information about how to secure homes effectively against burglaries.

Officers will undertake a variety of crime prevention activities which include hi-visibility patrols, Neighbourhood Watch letter drops, visits to local groups and speaking to home owners whose property looks insecure.

South Bucks District Councillor Anita Cranmer, Portfolio Holder for Community, says: “Burglars like the dark and if the inside of a house is in darkness it can indicate to the burglar that there’s no one home. Darkness also offers protection to them once they are inside the property. Good lighting can deter a thief. Timer switches are available at police, ‘Have your Say meetings,’ or can be bought from most supermarkets and DIY stores. We also recommend using energy saving light bulbs”

Gemma Herbert, Crime Reduction Officer, says: “A home in darkness tells potential burglars that nobody’s home. By using timer light switches residents can protect their property by creating the impression that someone’s home.”

She adds, “My message to you is lock it, light it!”

If you would like further crime prevention advice please contact the community safety team on 01895 837200.