Friday, May 11, 2018

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM BURGLARY - Tips from the Crime Prevention Office


PROTECT YOURSELF FROM BURGLARY - Tips from the Crime Prevention Office

Cyprus Police suggests the adoption of the following measures as ways to protect your property:

1  Lock up when you leave your house, regardless if you are going to be away for a short period of time.

2  Keep your shutters and curtains closed - it will prevent burglars from looking inside your home.

3  Do not open the door before you see who the visitor is.

4  Fit a door chain and door viewer [spy hole].  Fit strong locks to external doors and windows.   Windows could be fitted with extra security systems.

5  Never give your house keys to cleaners or other persons.

6  Never leave a spare ke in a hiding place such as under the doormat or in/under a flowerpot.

7  Always remove keys from door locks.

8  Do not leave your house keys in the car when you take it for washing, repairing or servicing.

9  Install security lighting.

10 Fit an alarm security system.

11 When you are out in the evening, leave your lights on.  You may wish to instal a timer switch.

12 Do not let anyone know of any valuables you keep at home.

13 Do not keep large amounts of money at home.

14 Valuables are best kept in safe boxes or bank safety deposit boxes.  Keeping photos of your valuables might be useful in case these are stolen.    Please also ensure that any safe used in the home is suitable for purpose and that it is anchored to the floor or something substantial.

15 If you live in a block of flats, make sure the common entrance is kept locked.  Fit a compact door and a safety lock.

16 Try to get to know your neighbours and make sure you build a relationship of trust and mutual support with them.

17 If you realise someone has broken into your house, call the police immediately and wait outside at a safe distance.

18 When you are out forward your calls to your cell phone or to the phone of someone you trust.  Avoid leaving messages on the voice machine announcing that you are not at home.

19 Keep your tools and ladders securely locked up.


Remember, burglars prefer easy targets.  Make your home a difficult target for burglars; reduce your risk of being burgled.