Police to offer burglary prevention tips in Kettering next week

The joint Prevention and Community Protection department and local officers will hold the event at the Police Social Club in London Road on December 20 from 1pm to 2pm.

The session is being held so local people can come along and gain reassurance as well as crime prevention advice from officers.

Community support officer Christine Cotter said: “We hope the event being held later this month is well attended and will be useful to members of the community who perhaps worry about how to protect their homes from potential burglars.

“The run-up to Christmas is often a time when people do find themselves busier and more distracted, but we would urge people to always remember to keep their properties secure and valuables (including Christmas presents) out of clear view of a potential burglar.

“There is plenty people can do to protect their homes so we hope this event will go some way to reassuring the public.”

Police have offered these burglary prevention tips:

1 - Keep doors and windows secure. Front and back doors should be kept locked at all times – even when you are home.

2 - If you open windows for air, make sure they are closed before you go out or leave the room.

3 - Keep keys and other valuables out of sight and reach of cat flaps, letterboxes and downstairs doors and windows.

4 - Don’t forget garages, sheds and outbuildings – make sure they are locked and secure too.

5 - Make sure your home is visible from the street by keeping bushes and fences low at the front.

6 - Avoid sharing holiday plans on social media as this could tip off potential burglars about an empty property.

7 - If going on holiday, remember to cancel deliveries such as milk or newspapers.

8 - Don’t leave garden tools or ladders lying about in the garden as burglars could use these to break into your house.

9 - When recycling, fold up any cardboard boxes that might advertise your Christmas gifts to thieves.

10 - If you are going away, ensure your burglar alarm is set.