Chief Inspector Steve MaskreyPOLICE in Uttoxeter are reminding people to take simple crime prevention measures this winter to protect their homes against burglars.
The timely reminder comes after the force released details of two incidents in Kingstone near Uttoxeter over the Christmas period.
Overnight on Thursday, December 27 to Friday, December 28 offenders attempted to force the rear patio door of a home but failed to gain entry.
However, they succeeded in getting inside another property in the same road and stole a 55 inch Samsung television and the keys to a white BMW estate.
They then drove off in the vehicle, which was parked on the driveway of the house.
Chief inspector Steve Maskrey, East Staffordshire local policing team commander, who covers Uttoxeter issued advice to people in the area to be on the lookout.
He said: “We are urging residents to look at their property through the eyes of a burglar and make adjustments if there are weak security spots.
“Keep burglars out by shutting windows and locking doors, even when you are in the house or the garden.
“Residents are asked to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity or vehicles immediately by ringing 999.”
Numerous tips have been produced by Staffordshire Police to try and keep the burglars at bay.
They include securing passageways and side entrances, making sure sheds and garages are fitted with proper security locks, and putting tools away so they can’t be used to break in to homes.
If ladders are left outside, it is advised to make sure they are on their side and securely fixed to a wall or permanent fixture.
Wheelie bins should be kept secure and away from the property to stop thieves using them to get through first floor windows, or setting fire to them.
For full information on burglary prevention, visit the advice zone section of Staffordshire Police’s website www.staffordshire.police.uk, or ring the non-emergency number 101.
Anyone with information on the incidents in Kingstone is asked to contact DC Steve Schollar at Staffordshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 314 of December 28.
Alternatively they can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
