Police urge people to consider their home security

Police are currently investigating two break-ins in Dumfries where private homes have been targeted in the past week In each case guns, jewellery, cash and alcohol have been taken, and in each case the properties were vacant at the time with the owners being away on holiday. Extensive enquiries are being made into both these crimes in an attempt to recover the property, in particular the firearms, and police are asking for the assistance of the public in that regard. In particular anyone who has perhaps been offered any of the property for sale, or who may know the whereabouts of any of the property are asked to contact the police in Dumfries on 0845 600 5701. Information can be given anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where no names are asked for and the caller will always remain anonymous.

A warning is also being issued by the police in relation to anyone going on holiday who may be fearful for the safety of their home during this period. Simple yet effective precautions can be taken which will add to the security of any property when vacant, such as:-

· If you have an alarm system, make sure it is switched on when you leave the house. Get into the habit of doing this every time you leave the house, and it will become a matter of habit.

· Tell a neighbour that you are going away and ask them to keep an eye on your property, and to report immediately any suspicious activity around your home.

· Refrain from telling everyone you meet that you are going away on holiday – however tempting it might be.

· If you are able to get someone to call round and visit your home, get them to remove any mail or circulars that get stuck through letterboxes, which can be tell tale signs that no-one is at home.

· If you have particularly expensive items of property in your home consider placing them in a place of safety during your absence, or at least out of sight within the home

· Likewise with firearms, consider their security. Where are the keys kept to the gun cabinets? Don’t leave them lying about – hide them away from where the guns are secured. Ensure that gun cabinets are locked at all times and that any firearms or ammunition are always secured away and not left lying about. Again further information on gun security can be obtained from any of our Firearms Licensing officers, just a call away on 0845 600 5701.

Anyone can get a free home security survey by contacting their local Crime Reduction Officer who can arrange to visit and carry out the survey, offering practical, cost effective advice on how to better protect your home. They can be contacted on 0845 600 5701.