Be sure your home is secure this Christmas

Are you planning to go out this evening?

Dark evenings make it easier for burglars to spot which homes are empty.

Most burglaries are carried out by opportunist thieves who look for security lapses, such as unlocked doors and windows.

We know you have 101 things on your mind at this time of year. We’re asking you to take a moment to help reduce the risk of your home and valuables being targeted when you’re out.

The best things you can do are:

• make sure your doors and windows are locked shut.
• leave a light or lamp on an automatic timer.
• keep car keys in a secure place and not on a key hook.
• if you have a burglar alarm, make sure it’s set.
• install good outdoor security lighting.
• make sure Christmas presents and valuables are not easy to spot from the outside.

Derbyshire continues to be a safe place to live. We don’t want people to feel alarmed, but to be alert and security conscious.

We also encourage everyone to be good neighbours and contact us if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your area. Report via this website or call 101 for non-emergencies. You should phone 999 in an emergency or if you suspect a crime to be in progress.

It’s easy to think it will never happen to you, but please take that extra moment to make sure you’re secure and help us keep your homes safe at this time of year.