Advice to residents after recent burglaries in Chesterfield area

Officers are reminding residents to ensure their properties are secure and valuable items are kept out of sight after a number of burglaries in the Chesterfield area.

Over the last three months, we have seen a number of dwelling burglaries in the area, and in particular burglaries which involve car keys being stolen and the victim’s car being taken.

Recent incidents include a burglary on 14 January when thieves entered a property in Westmoor Drive, Brimington, and stole numerous items before taking three vehicles parked on the drive. Two of the vehicles have since been recovered.

In another incident on the same evening, a property in Braemar Close, New Whittington, was broken into when thieves took a quantity of jewellery as well as a BMW.

Patrols will be stepped up in the areas affected and we are encouraging people to report any suspicious activity to us.

Residents can also take a number of steps in order to keep their homes and property safe. These are:

• Keep windows and doors locked and secure at all times, whether you are in or out of your home.
• Keep valuables out of sight and out of reach of cat flaps, letterboxes, downstairs doors and windows.
• Leave your car keys in a secure place and not on a key hook.
• Use outdoor security lighting.
• Make your home look occupied when you are out – draw your curtains, leave a lamp on or leave a radio playing.
• If it will be dark before you get home, set your lights on timers.
• Consider fitting a burglar alarm - make sure it is installed properly by a reputable firm and is working. Also remember to set it before you leave home, or if you’re going to sleep.
• Keep gates, garages, sheds or outbuildings secure.
• What’s in your garden that could potentially aid a burglar? Lock away ladders and gardening tools to prevent them being used to access your home.
• Never leave a spare key outside of your house – burglars know the usual hiding spots.
• Consider installing a video doorbell or CCTV to help you know who’s outside your property.

We encourage people to be a good neighbour and to contact us if you see anyone acting suspiciously via our non-emergency methods. If you believe the crime is still in progress call 999.