Update from local DNO

Update from local DNO

Good morning,

With darker nights this winter, we have had four reports of vehicle thefts from the area within the past 30 days, with predominantly keyless vehicles targeted. Vehicle theft can have a devastating effect on us when trying to go about our lives, however there are quick ways to protect you and your vehicle:
 

Take your keys out the ignition
Lock your car and check the handle
Share your location with trusted people

We've not escaped the cold weather yet. Wrap up warm and stay with your car whilst it defrosts ❄️
Don't let criminals take advantage of an unlocked car

Fitting a steering lock when you park up can deter thieves and protect your vehicle.
Make sure you park in a well-lit area, on a driveway, or in a designated parking space where you can.

If your car has Keyless Entry and Start (PKES), it can be stolen by ‘Relay Attack’ 
⛔️Stop this happening by layering up your security
• Keep your keys in a faraday pouch 
• Move keys away from doors and windows
• Use a steering lock
Protect your car from theft ➡️https://bit.ly/3vXIC4

We take all reports about car crime seriously –your information helps us catch criminals. 
If you think car criminals are operating in your area please let us know. 
If someone is stealing a vehicle or has just stolen one:
• Please call 999 immediately and tell us the registration number of the vehicle, the make, model and colour. 
• If you saw the vehicle being driven off please let us know the direction it travelled in and provide as much detail 
as possible about the person or people involved.
If you want to report suspicious activity or crime anonymously, you can call Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit their website.

Whilst no successful burglaries have been reported, one attempted burglary has been reported where thankfully the owner had placed an additional lock on the inside of the door, preventing entry. To ensure your property is secure, where going away on holiday or simply resting for the evening;

Immediate security tips

· Always close and lock doors and windows when you’re out or in another part of the house

· Make your home look occupied when you’re away. Use timer switches in different rooms if possible

· If you have an alarm system, ensure it is working and set whenever you leave

· Keep tools and ladders stored securely and out of reach

· Lock all side gates, as well as your garage and/or shed, when not in use

· Keep valuables out of sight from windows and doors

· Let trusted neighbours know if you’re going away, so they can keep an eye on your property

· If you are going away, avoid posting about it on social media until you return

· Make sure you’re in to receive parcels or request for any deliveries to be made to a secure locker or parcel shop, so your parcels aren’t left outside

Long-term security measures

· Fit British Standard deadlocks or anti-snap locks to external doors. For example Yale locks have a 1, 2 or 3 star rating. We always recommend 3 star Yale locks to prevent lock-snap attacks.

· Install locks on all windows

· Secure patio doors with purpose-made locks

· Consider installing cameras or smart doorbells for added deterrence

· Keep hedges and fencing low at the front of your property to improve visibility

· Fit external security lighting or low-wattage garden lights

· Mark your valuables with your postcode and house/flat number using a UV pen

· Consider a second layer of lock on doorways(e.g an additional hinge and padlock) when going away

Your CCTV helps us to solve crimes in your area

It takes just 60 seconds to help us solve crimes in your area. Simply register your CCTV and doorbell cameras for free on our secure CCTV map.

If a crime happens and officers think it was captured on your camera, you’ll receive a text or email containing a secure link to upload the images. You’re in total control of what you send.

Visit westmidlands.police.uk/cctv-registry to find out more

No suspicious incident is too small to report - any logs of suspicious activity can help us build intelligence around local issues, to detect and prevent crime, and to provide the level of service to the public that you deserve. If you see anything suspicious, please call 101 or visit Report a crime | West Midlands Police. In an emergency, always call 999.

Thanks, and take care of yourselves. 

PC Alexander Matthews | 25140 Designated Neighbourhood Officer Pedmore & Stourbridge East West Midlands Police Web: westmidlands.police.uk Email: Alexander.Matthews@westmidlands.police.uk “Prevent Harm, Protect People, and Build Trust”