Home Security Update

Unfortunately, the number of burglaries in the local area are increasing - there were a number of incidents durig 2022 including 1 burglary and a couple of attempted burglaries in the village.  Whilst Sedgwick remains a very safe place to live, it is important to remember that we are near to the motorway and the A590/591 which makes us an attractive target for criminals from out of the area. 

Most burglars are opportunistic and if they cannot get into your home within 60 seconds they will move on. 
Most get in through doors (75%), windows (22%) and balconies/skylights (3%).  Well tended neighbourhoods tend to deter burglars.  Keeping hedges low at the front of properties and fences at about 1.8m to 2m at the back of properties will also act as a deterrent. 

At a recent Seminar, the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme provided information about their WIDEN Schene, a common sense, low cost strategy to make your home safer.

The WIDEN Scheme focusses on

Windows - make sure they are locked and hide valuables so they cannot be seen from outside.
Interior Lights - use smart plugs/adaptors to have lights come on when you are not at home.
Doors - make sure you lock your door after you come home, some criminals are watching people open up, put the keys on the hall table, they then just open the door, take the keys are off with the car before you can stop them.  Don’t leave keys or handbags near the front door.
Exterior Lights - if you are thinking of having them installed, plan carefully where you are going to have them so that all areas are covered. Please make sure they are dark skies compliant! see our Dark Sky Cumbria page here
Neighbours - if you are going away please tell your neighbours and keep an eye out for one another.

Download a WIDEN checklist here

For more information from Neighbourhood Watch click here

The most effective crime prevention can be done for no cost (hiding valuables from sight), locking doors and not leaving windows open or low cost (hedge maintenance) and that we should build on that, check that window locks are good and that your door locks meet the current standards.  If you do want to upgrade security, then make sure the products are certified to either Police Preferred Specifications, Sold Secure or MLA - Master Locksmith Association specifications.
 
If you do see an incident or are the victim of one please do report it to the police and let your local councillors know. More information can be found at ourwatch.org.uk.