| With summer here at last, open doors and windows can give police the summertime blues...... |
| By Karen Keen |
| With summer here at last, open doors and windows can give police the summertime blues. Concern is growing about people who are leaving doors unlocked and windows wide open to stay cool – even as they sleep – offering an invitation to burglars. Police are warning householders across Essex’s central division, which covers Braintree, Chelmsford, Maldon and Uttlesford, that they should not drop their guard because the weather is getting warmer. Ground floor doors and windows should be secured with strong locks at night and even when the house is occupied during the day it is wise not to have an “open door” situation. Keys should be removed from doors and if a burglar alarm is fitted, it should be engaged. Also, car keys are best kept out of sight. Trisha Staerck, one of Essex Police's crime reduction officers, said: “A house left insecure is like putting out a welcome mat for burglars. By following these simple crime prevention rules people can protect themselves from burglary and the stress and inconvenience this causes.” |