Stay safe and secure

Help keep your car, home and possessions secure by investing in discounted crime prevention tools on Monday, 21 November.

Home and car alarms, door chains, 24 hour timers and outdoor lights are just some of the crime prevention materials residents can buy at discounted prices at a Neighbourhood Watch event at the Civic Offices, Elstree Way, Borehamwood, between 11am and 3pm.

PCSOs Samantha O'Grady and Barry Lovegrove will join Richard Jarvis from the Borough Neighbourhood Watch Committee to explain how the crime prevention tools work and the benefits of them. 

"Although Hertsmere is a safe place to live and work, it is always a good idea to be prepared and take a few moments to make sure your property is fully secure," said PCSO Samantha O'Grady.  "The event is designed to help residents ensure their car, home and possessions are fully secure to help reduce the chance of being a victim of crime this autumn and winter.  It is also an opportunity to meet your local officers and discuss crime prevention issues, so why not come along and see what is on offer and how we can all help keep Hertsmere safer."

Councillor John Donne, Hertsmere's Community Safety Portfolio Holder, said: "Traditionally more burglaries and other crime can take place during the festive season so this is a great opportunity to secure your property and possessions in time for Christmas.  You will also be able to pick up other top tips for keeping safe this winter."

If you are unable to make the event, you can contact PCSOs O'Grady or Lovegrove on their radio 01707 354192 (when they are on duty) on via email samantha.o'grady@herts.pnn.police.uk or barry.lovegrove@herts.pnn.police.uk

Along with additional tools, you can take some simple steps for free:

To secure your home:

• Make sure you double-lock any UPVC doors by lifting the handle and locking it (to engage the security features) before you go to bed or leave your home (if you remove the key make sure you have a fire escape plan).
• Check all doors and windows are locked - including those upstairs - before you go out. 
• Consider installing alarms and 'dusk to dawn' security lighting.
• Secure your rear garden - lock your shed, shut and lock any gates and keep fences maintained. Don’t leave ladders and tools outside - they could be used by a burglar.
• Use timer switches on lamps to give the impression somebody is at home when you are out.
• Register your property on immobilise.com 

To secure your vehicle:

• Close the windows and sunroof.
• Lock all the doors and the boot.
• Use an approved steering lock or gear clamp.
• Set your immobiliser and alarm if you have one.
• Always take the keys out of the ignition even if you are just paying for petrol or stopping to buy a newspaper.
• Never leave vehicle documents in your car – don’t make it easy for a thief to sell your car or provide a cover story if stopped by the police.