Simple steps to reduce burglary heartache

At a time when expensive gifts are being exchanged, criminals seize on the opportunity to commit burglaries in the hope of scooping brand new items that they can then sell on.

Residents are being urged to register with the UK National Property Register at www.immobilise.com where they can log any items such as mobile phones, computers, bicycles, appliances and jewellery. Immobilise will record serial numbers and also allows the user to upload pictures and a brief description of the item.

The Immobilise database is linked directly to a number of police systems across the UK which makes it easier for officers to trace the owners of any recovered items as well as identifying items that have been found on suspected criminals.

Another measure that residents can consider is security marking their property with Ultra-Violet (UV) pens or chemical DNA marking solutions which can also be used on jewellery.

Inspector Jim Hitch of Bedfordshire Police said: “No one likes to think about being the victim of crime at such a happy time of year, but unfortunately there are people out there who prey on people at this time of year for that very reason.

“Registering your items with Immobilise only takes a few minutes and is completely free of charge, but the benefits of it could be priceless. By taking photos of your items, you would also providing the police with great intelligence – if you have jewellery, then place the item next to a ruler when taking the photo so that it is clear how big the item is.

“Bedfordshire Police is working tirelessly to combat the threat of burglary in the run up to Christmas and beyond but I hope that residents take the time to register and mark their belongings to make sure anything stolen really is ‘too hot to handle’.”

Bedfordshire Police and Crime Reduction co-ordinators continue to actively target the problem at the moment but anything that can be done to prevent the problem in the first place is invaluable.

Other measures that residents can take to reduce the threat of burglary include:

>>Keep vehicle keys out of sight at night.

>>If you have a garage, use it.

>>Ensure security lights are working and your car is locked and alarmed.

>>Ensure all doors and windows are locked.

>>If you see someone acting suspiciously, telephone the police.

>>Join a Neighbourhood Watch or Street Watch scheme.

If you have information relating to any burglaries, contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.

Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.