Tameside Home Watch Newsletter

December 2010

Keep Thieves Out in the Cold

Police in Tameside are warning motorists not to leave their cars unattended while defrosting their car.

By staying with vehicles while de-icing them on frosty mornings, motorists can dramatically reduce their chances of having their vehicle stolen. They should also always ensure that their cars are also fully locked and secured when unattended.

Chief Inspector Lindsay Atherton for Tameside Division, said: "People can be tempted to leave their vehicle unattended with the engine running, on a frosty morning while they go indoors to keep out of the cold.

“However, it only takes a few seconds for a thief to steal a car when the keys have been left in the ignition.

“In such circumstances, insurance policies maybe invalidated, so the decision to leave the vehicle unattended with the engine running could be an expensive one. This is why I would urge motorists to remain vigilant against opportunist thieves and keep them out of your vehicle”

Residents Urged to Secure Homes Following Spate of Burglaries

Residents across Tameside are being urged to secure their windows and doors following a spate of burglaries in the area.

Between 1 September to 29 October 231 homes were broken into.

Thirty percent of these burglaries happened because thieves entered the properties through insecure windows and doors.

Detective Chief Inspector Denise Worth, Tameside Division said “ I would urge people to check their properties for any insecurities before going to bed. Make sure your vehicle is securely locked and alarmed and that all valuables have been removed at night. Remember insecure vehicles and properties are the ideal target for thieves in our community.

“Residents are advised never to leave their car or house keys either near windows sills or in porches or hallways. They are also urged to put any valuables out of sight, preferably in a locked drawer or cabinet. Be vigilant, if you see anything suspicious contact the police immediately.

“If you don’t secure your home you are not only leaving yourself vulnerable to burglars, but you may also invalidate any insurance claim.”

Police are encouraging residents to register and property mark any valuables to ensure they can be returned if lost or stolen.

Police are also offering the following advice to help protect homes against burglars:

• Keep windows locked but if you need to open them, ensure you lock them when you leave the room
• Keep all external doors locked, even when you are in
• Use light timer switches or simply leave a light on when you are out to give the impression someone is at home
• Always set your burglar alarm when you go to bed
• Mark all valuables with a UV pen, to include your postcode and house number or first two letters of your house name
• Never leave car or house keys near window sills, in porches or hall ways
• Put keys and valuables away and out of sight, preferably in a locked drawer or cabinet.

It May Be The Season Of Goodwill, But Don’t Make It A Happy Christmas For Criminals

Don’t Leave your Valuables On View

• Make sure you lock your car doors and windows
• Don’t leave your SatNav in the car, take it with you
• Don’t leave goods and presents on view in your car
• Put all valuables out of sight and locked in the boot
• Park in a busy well lit location or in an attended car park
• Don’t leave keys in the ignition while unloading your car
• Don’t leave keys near a window or door
• Put your car in the garage if you have one. 

Neighbourhood Police Teams

Tameside North - 0161 856 9350 - tameside.north@gmp.police.uk
Tameside South - 0161 856 9484 - tameside.south@gmp.police.uk 
Tameside East - 0161 856 9511 - tameside.east@gmp.police.uk
Tameside West - 0161 856 9390 - tameside.west@gmp.police.uk

Tameside Home Watch Wishes Everyone a Crime Free Christmas and a Happy, Safe and Prosperous New Year