Home security advice issued as lockdown eases

Published Wednesday, 8th July 2020

As lockdown restrictions ease, community safety officials in Hartlepool have issued home security advice to householders.

The multi-agency Hartlepool Community Safety Team wants to ensure that properties are not left vulnerable to thieves and burglars as more people return to work or go away on holiday.

Victim Services Officer Jane Munden said: “Many people have been at home for a considerable length of time but with the easing of lockdown restrictions this is now changing.

“It is important that we all take steps to make our homes as secure as possible.”

She says householders should:

  • Never advertise on social media that they are going away.
  • Ask a friend, family member or a trusted neighbour to take out/bring in bins, open/close curtains and collect mail.
  • Set light timers to make it look like someone is home.
  • Remember to make sure that all doors, windows and gates are shut and locked even if they are only in the garden or another part of the property. Remember to remove the keys and store them in a safe place.
  • Remove all valuables from view.
  • Use an alarm if they have one. If they are considering getting one then they should look for an approved installer that is NSI accredited.
  • Make sure any CCTV they are considering getting covers all areas of their property.
  • Consider installing security lighting if they don’t have it already.
  • Never leave any tools outside or garden furniture that could be easily taken or used to break into their home.
  • Mark valuables with their name and postcode.

As part of her role, Jane offers free and confidential victim support and crime prevention advice. Anyone who is a victim of crime or who is feeling vulnerable and needs support or advice on home security can contact her by calling (01429) 523100 or emailing community.safety@hartlepool.gov.uk