Crime prevention roadshows across Calderdale

With the darker nights drawing in residents are being reminded of simple crime prevention advice to help them reduce their chances of being a victim of burglary in particular.

At this time of year houses that can be easily identified as being empty are particularly vulnerable to burglars from mid afternoon onwards.

Tracy Pritchard, the Calderdale Crime Prevention Officer, said: “By following some simple steps residents can greatly reduce their chance of being a victim of a burglary.

“Leave lights on in your house when you go out and choose well used rooms such as the lounge or bedroom to create the impression that someone is in.

“Keep doors and windows locked at all times and use timer switches to trigger one or more lights and even having a radio turned on can give a burglar the impression that you are in.

“It is also important to look out for one another - so if you know your neighbour is out and see someone acting suspiciously around their property then call police immediately.

“It is also a good idea to join a neighbourhood watch scheme and to use lighting at the front and the back of your house. Fitting low energy dusk till dawn lights is a good idea and they are cheap to install and run. They will light up any areas that would-be burglars could use to hide.

“I would also encourage residents to carry out a security check around their house. Give your doors, windows and gates a check and ask yourself: “could you gain access to your house without being noticed. If the answer is yes then a burglar could definitely do so.

“This is all quick and easy advice to follow and we are also doing our bit by hosting a series of events where people can come and talk to me or a member of our Neighbourhood Policing Team.

“At the events we will be giving out crime prevention advice and we also have a limited number of free products including timer switches and high visibility items and stickers for children.”

Officers will be at the below locations on the following dates:

Hebden Bridge Market Wednesday 23rd October.

Brighouse Tescos Wednesday 6th November.

Todmorden Market Thursday 7th November.

Greeland Newbank Garden Centre Tuesday 12th November.

Halifax Town Centre Precinct Thursday 14th November.

Sowerby Bridge Tesco Tuesday 19th November.

Ovenden/Illingworth Morissons Thursday 21st November.

Elland Market Wednesday 27th November.

If you suspect a crime is in progress then call police on 999 or 101 for all other matters. Visit www.westyorkshire.police.uk/crimeprevention for more advice on how to secure your property.