House and Vehicle Security

Following a housebreaking in Fettercairn on Wednesday 26 May 2021 Police would like to remind householders of the following simple steps to keep their property safe.

Your Home

Most housebreakings are carried out by opportunist thieves – so take away the opportunity and keep your home and possessions safe.

Lock the Door

Obvious isn’t it? But some people don’t do it. Lock the door even if you’re only out for a short time. If you have window locks, lock those too. Why not keep the door locked when you are at home? This stops people coming in if you are in another part of the house or garden.

Keep Your Keys out of Sight

Don’t leave your keys on the inside of locks or just inside the door. If you have a spare key, don’t leave it under a mat, plant-pot or other easy to spot place at home. Never keep house keys and car keys on the same ring. Make it as hard as possible to break into your home or to steal your car.

Always Lock Your Car

This is the simplest way to keep your car safe. Get into the habit of locking the car every time you leave it. Also, make sure windows are properly closed.

Keys

Cars fitted with immobilisers can’t be hot wired. This means that keys are needed to drive your car. Keep your keys safe. Don’t leave them in the lock of your front door, or on the kitchen counter. When you are out, keep them with you at all times.

A key is used in 70% of car thefts. By keeping your keys safe, you’re reducing the risk of your car being stolen by more than two thirds.

Possessions

If possible, don’t leave belongings in your car. Take them with you if you can. If not, lock them in the boot out of sight.

Original Message Sent By Michael Urquhart (Police, Constable, North East Division)