Burglaries

Protecting Your Property

Burglars often target homes where access is easy and valuables are visible. You can reduce the chances of becoming a victim by taking the following precautions:

• Avoid keeping valuables in obvious locations such as the main bedroom, bedside drawers, or anywhere visible from the road. Consider using less predictable storage areas within your home.
• If you use a safe, ensure it is securely fixed so it cannot be lifted out or removed. A properly installed safe should be bolted to a solid surface.
• Keep doors, windows and gates locked even when you are at home, working in the garden, or popping out briefly.
• Use timers for lights and electronics to make your home look occupied when you’re away, especially during evenings or longer trips.
• Ensure sheds, garages and outbuildings are locked and consider adding security lighting or alarms to these areas.
• Keep tools and ladders secured so they cannot be used to gain entry.
• Register valuable items such as electronics, bikes and jewellery on property databases like Immobilise to assist in recovery if stolen.
• Install and maintain good-quality home security measures, including CCTV, motion‑activated lighting, doorbell cameras and intruder alarms where possible.

Be Aware of What You Share

• Avoid posting details of holidays or long periods away on social media.
• Review privacy settings so your posts are not publicly visible.

Look Out for Your Community

• Get to know your neighbours and consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
• Look out for each other’s homes, especially if someone is away for extended periods.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

We ask residents to remain vigilant. If you see or hear anything suspicious, please contact us on 101, or 999 in an emergency where a crime is in progress or immediate assistance is needed.

Further advice is available on the Report Burglary section of the Avon and Somerset Police website.