Opportunistic thieves don’t have a day off just because it hot and sunny outside.

When you leave home, make sure your home, garage, shed is secure to avoid ‘sneak-in thefts’.

An open window is an invitation to thieves.

Keep your home safe

To keep your home safe you can:

lock your doors and windows or fit extra locks

use a security bar for your door

use security items certified by Secured By Design or Sold Secure

put your keys somewhere safe

avoid putting your address or room number on your keys

avoid putting a calendar near a window

install a security alarm

add security lights such as motion sensor or timer-activated lights

consider using CCTV to check and record activity on your property

add window grills or heavy wire mesh

If you’re on holiday

To protect your property when you’re away, you can:

avoid posting on social media

ask someone to check on your home, open and close curtains, and remove post

ask a neighbour to put your bins out and put them back

use timers on lights

set your house alarm

What to do if a break-in happens

If you think someone has broken into your house or garden you should not go inside in case the intruder is still there.

If you can:

go to a neighbour or safe place

call 999 if you think the intruder is still there

call 101 or fill in our online form if the intruder has gone

Victim Support can give support after a break-in, and help deal with the police, insurance, and other processes.

How to report a break-in

If you want to tell us about a break in, you can report it online, by phone, or in person.

Message Sent By
Iain Monro
(Police Scotland, PS - Community Policing, V Div - Dumfriesshire)