Bus campaign drives home anti-burglar message

This year the Ballymoney, Moyle Limavady and Coleraine Community Partnerships joined forces to urge residents in each Council area to keep their property and valuables protected, secure and safe.

Cathy Watson, Ballymoney's Community Safety Manager, explains the motivations behind the initiative. She said: "The re-launch of the 'Close it, Lock it, Check it' campaign in the summer months serves as a reminder to the public, and our visitors to be vigilant.

"People tend to be out of the house more at this time of year going on long walks and taking day trip. Also the warm weather makes the summer a prime time for leaving property an open invitation to burglars.

"Not only are windows more likely to be left open but also many residents will leave their properties vacant as they enjoy extended summer holidays. Therefore, it is important for the partnerships to come together to raise public awareness on burglary prevention.

"Statistics show that 50 percent of burglaries are caused when doors are left unlocked and windows left open, so many of these crimes are opportunistic and are easily avoidable.

"In the past year we have witnessed a decrease in domestic burglaries in the Ballymoney area, 51 incidents were recorded in 2008/2009 whilst 40 were recorded in 2009/2010. The decrease can possibly be attributed to a number of factors including police actions, community observance and the power of these campaigns.

"However, we must not get complacent, we need to heighten and maintain public awareness."

The partnerships are encouraging people to close, lock and check all windows and doors before leaving home or going to bed. Use timer switches on lights to make it look as though the house is occupied. Mark high value property with the relevant house number and postcode using a UV pen, and make a note of these items. Also take photographs of valuable property such as jewellery, computers, art work, electrical equipment, tools and bicycles.

In Moyle there were 73 burglaries recorded in the last period, up from 35. Bridgeen Butler, Moyle's Community Safety Manager, added; "In the past year we have witnessed an increase in domestic burglaries across the Moyle Council area therefore it is timely that we reintroduce this campaign. It highlights the importance of taking safety measures to reduce the likelihood of crime and burglaries occurring within our communities".

"If your house is fitted with an alarm systems make use of it on a regular basis. Ensure valuables such as car keys are kept out of sight and reach, and park family vehicles in a garage to deter thieves. Finally, request that a friend or relative checks your home if you are away for a few days or on holidays. It is important that these three steps, 'Close it, Lock it, Check it', are built into your daily routine to keep your home secure from criminals."

This campaign is funded by the Community Safety Unit under the Department of Justice, The Northern Ireland Policing Board and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.