Now the weather has warmed up and the nights are lighter, West Midlands Police are set to tackle the potential increase in opportunist crimes.
The force says at this time of year there is often a seasonal increase in crimes like burglary, vehicle theft and anti-social behaviour, as people open windows, spend more time away and life starts to move outdoors.
Neighbourhood teams across the region will be factoring this into their plans as they patrol and tackle crime across their areas, in a bid to reduce offending and keep people safe.
As part of a drive to tackle seasonal crime, police are urging residents to consider their home and personal security and have issued some advice on how to stay safe.
At home:
* Make sure spare keys are secure.
* Don’t leave tools or things like ladders or bins left where they can be used to climb or access properties.
* Check all your doors and windows are locked with the keys removed.
* Make sure side entrances and patio doors are secure.
* If you have a video doorbell, make sure this is charged so you can see who’s visiting your home even when you’re away.
* Check your’ve locked up, including sheds and garages.
* Avoid leaving car keys near entryways or in plain sight. If you can keep them in a Faraday pouch (a fabric or leather bag with metal mesh to block signals) and in a drawer away from doors or windows.
Vehicle
* Check your fob has done its job – make sure the lights on your car have flashed, the alarm is on, and if they can, your wing mirrors have folded in.
* If you can, secure a steering lock especially if you are leaving your car on the drive for a long period of time.
* Keep motorbikes and pedal bikes in the garage, shed or behind a secure door. Be sure to use a D-lock or multiple locks to keep it safe from opportunist thieves.
West Midlands Police also advises to ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your home if you are going away.
It added draw curtains or blinds and cancel any deliveries you might receive while away and use a timer switch to turn lights on and off in the evenings.
The force said: “We encourage you to share these security tips with your family and friends, to help reduce vehicle crime and car key burglary in your area.
“Check on your neighbours to make sure they feel safe in their home.”
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