Lincolnshire Police are urging people in the Boston area to take extra care following a recent rise in reported burglaries across the town and surrounding areas.
Officers say that in several recent incidents, suspects appear to have targeted properties with key safes, as well as homes with insecure doors or windows, suggesting offenders may be looking for easy opportunities where access can be gained quickly and quietly.
Police are now reminding residents to take a few simple but important steps to help protect their homes and belongings. They advise always keeping doors and windows locked, even when you are at home or only stepping out for a short time. Making sure locks are in good working order can make a real difference, and officers say homeowners should consider upgrading them if they are old or faulty. Windows should also be kept closed and secured at night or when rooms are left unattended, as even small gaps can provide an opportunity for thieves.
For households that use an external key safe, police are also stressing the importance of making sure it is police-approved and securely fitted to the property. Access codes should be changed regularly and only shared with people who genuinely need them, as criminals are known to look for poorly secured or easily accessible key safes when targeting homes.
Residents are also being encouraged to make their properties less appealing to would-be thieves. This includes keeping valuables out of sight from windows and doors, using timer switches for lights to give the impression that someone is at home when the property is empty, and making sure side gates, sheds and garages are properly locked and secure. Garden tools and ladders should also be stored away securely, as these can sometimes be used to help offenders gain access to homes.
Lincolnshire Police say the cooperation of the public is vital in helping to prevent and detect crime, and are asking anyone who sees anything suspicious in their area to report it as soon as possible. If a crime is in progress, people should always call 999. For non-emergencies, residents can contact police on 101 or use the online reporting service.
