Hannah.Meredith@sussex.pnn.police.uk www.sussex.police.uk HORSHAM DISTRICT NHW INFORMATION BULLETIN – 27 June 2008 The recent spell of hot sunny weather and the promise of more to come as Summer arrives is an opportune time to remind householders to be aware of the risk of burglaries via windows that are left open overnight or when the house is unoccupied. Although burglary figures have been steadily dropping, remembering to close and lock ground floor windows and doors before going to bed or going out, helps reduce the temptation and opportunity for thieves to steal . There have been incidents where property has been stolen by just leaning in through the open window and keys purses and other property stolen. Or the thief has taken advantage of surrounding noise by just walking in through an unlocked door whilst the occupier was out in the garden mowing the lawn or even washing the car. Remember to lock your side gate to prevent access to the rear of the house and making sure your fences and hedges are maintained too. If you have elderly and vulnerable neighbours, keep an eye open for strangers who are acting suspiciously in the vicinity. At this time of year they may have difficulty in dealing with their gardens and may fall victim of cold callers who are touting for garden work such as cutting grass, trees and hedges. Unfortunately there are some unscrupulous persons about purporting to be genuine tradesmen but who will charge extortionate fees, for doing very little or use the opportunity to burgle the house . Distraction burglars are very good at convincing vulnerable and elderly people they are genuine, to gain access to a property so that they can steal . · Do not allow strangers into you home unless you are sure they are genuine. · If you have a door chain, put it on the door when you answer it. · Are you expecting any callers. · Ask to see and check any identification very carefully. don't rely on the telephone number on the ID . · If you are not sure , ask the person to make an appointment to come back when you know you can have someone else in the house with you . · Keep a list of telephone numbers of local utility companies so you can check if callers are genuine. · Most utility companies will offer a password scheme that you can set up with them . Make sure if you need help with your garden, that you use someone you know and trust. West Sussex Trading Standards offer an Approved Tradesman list where you can ensure the trader has been subject to stringent checks and is reliable. Their Website is www.westsussex.gov.uk/tradingstandards or Tel 01243 642124 Sussex Police are continuing to target Distraction Burglars and Cold Callers . Further information regarding House and Garden Security and the Prevention of Distraction Burglary and Cold Callers can be obtained from your local PCSO Hannah Meredith PCSO Hannah Meredith Horsham Police Station 0845 60 70 999 ext 25605