Crimes against older people are particularly distasteful, but fortunately in Bridgend, those aged 50 years and over are less at risk of burglary than other age groups.
Although burglary rates have fallen by nearly 40% in the last six years, and according to Home Office statistics, you are less likely to be burgled now than at any time in the past 20 years, it is very distressing to have your home broken into - and as most burglaries are opportunist, they can often be prevented by taking a few commonsense precautions, brought to you by Safer Bridgend.
ü Always lock your doors when you go out and when you are in your home. Burglary is quick - most thieves take just 5 minutes to break in, steal your property and leave.
ü Close and lock your windows. Burglars can slip through even small ones and will avoid breaking glass because of the noise and the risk of leaving forensic evidence.
ü Never keep a key outside under a plant pot or in an unlocked shed, etc. Burglars will always check around outside a property for a spare key.
ü Never leave keys in a visible spot in your hall or where they could be reached by someone 'fishing' through your letterbox. Modern cars are almost impossible to steal without obtaining the key and 7% of home burglaries in 2008/9 involved the taking of a vehicle using keys stolen from the home.
ü Keep important documents such as your passport, driving licence, bank details, etc locked away in a safe place. Identity theft is big business - don't make it easy for the thieves.
Bridgend is one of the lowest crime areas in South Wales. By following these simple steps you can continue to make life harder for the passing thief and help us to ensure that Bridgend remains a safe place to live and work.
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