Householders in the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend are being reminded not to make life easy for burglars as their attentions turn to the onset of spring and beginning to work out in their gardens and their allotments.

The timely reminder comes from South Wales Police as the first glimpses of spring weather are just around the corner. Detective Inspector Jason Redrup is encouraging people not to leave sheds, garages and homes insecure or expensive garden implements lying around unattended.

Detective Inspector Redrup said:

“As the better spring weather arrives and people are getting out into their gardens I encourage them also to take more responsibility for their possessions and not to leave them where they can be easily seen or taken. Many burglaries occur on the spur of the moment as a burglar may see an opportunity and take their chance.

“Items which are left in a shed, especially during the spring and summer months can be very expensive and they should not be left where they can be easily taken.

“Always make sure that you leave your doors locked and your windows secure, a simple precaution such as this can save a lot of heartache and inconvenience in the long run. Burglars do not just try one door handle here or there, they will try every handle in the street – so do you want to be the unlucky one?

“South Wales Police officers regularly respond to reports of houses which have been broken into because the occupier has made it very easy for the opportunist thief or for those who target this type of property to enter their homes and steal their possessions.”

Police warn that insecure homes and property form a significant proportion of burglaries of homes and urge the public to take more care with their property and not spoil their spring and summer because of a few moments of thoughtlessness when they leave their doors or windows unlocked.

D I Redrup added:

“I am also appealing for people to be vigilant and look out for each other. If you see a neighbour’s home which is insecure, please be a good neighbour and point it out to them, particularly if they are elderly or have some form of disability.

“If you have any concerns or see people acting suspiciously please ring the police, we would much rather attend to address your concern than attend after a burglary has taken place.”

Crime reduction adviser Deborah Elward said:

“Thieves target sheds and garages for valuable equipment such as power tools, bikes and sports equipment.

“Home owners can make it more difficult for burglars by implementing simple crime prevention measures such as using strong locks, fixing non-return screws to door hinges, chaining larger items, perhaps buy an alarm which is available for under £20 from most DIY shops.

“Finally, please do not hesitate to contact the police should you witness any suspicious activity.”

For more crime prevention advice please attend your next PACT meeting or nearest police station.