Advice from Cambridgeshire Constabulary about securing your home
Burglaries are happening regularly across villages in South Cambs, usually happening in the day when properties appear to be empty, with cash and jewellery being the common things stolen. Have you considered how secure your property is? If not you may be interested to know that there is an online quiz designed to confirm how safe your property is. Chief Inspector James Sutherland from South Cambs Policing team created the quiz around a year ago and it is still running. Once the quiz is completed it tells you how safe your home is.
The “bad-wolf test” takes just 2 minutes to complete and tells you how safe your home is from burglars. You get a score of bricks, twigs or straw.
Anyone who gets the STRAW rating is given an email contact address and encouraged to get in contact with Cambs Police so that they are given the opportunity to have an officer from South Cambs Police, come out and do a free full home security survey.
Try the quiz yourself to see how safe your home is.
http://tinyurl.com/bad-wolf-test
Another option to consider is, The Bobby Scheme. The Cambridgeshire Bobby Scheme is a local charity which provides a service to older or vulnerable people by improving home security to reduce crime and the fear of crime. The Bobby Scheme works with a number of partner agencies, including the Police, Fire Service, Local Authorities, Age UK and other charities.
The trained staff come out and fit a range of security devices to help people feel safe in their own homes. Devices such as window locks, door chains, personal attack alarms, window and door alarms etc. They also provide other security advice and reassurance. On average it costs the Bobby Scheme £130 to work at each home, so they do ask people to consider making a donation so that they can continue to provide such a great service. This is how the scheme works:-
- If you have been a victim of crime and you are over 60, you can receive a free visit.
- If you are 65 and over or disabled and would like a visit from the Bobby Scheme to reduce your chance of becoming a victim, they ask for a contribution of £30.00 towards their costs.
- Key safes suppled and fitted from £50.00 and £80.00
- Other specialist products are available to be purchased.
The number to call if you would like a visit from the Bobby Scheme is 01480 413311 or 07866 602100. They also have a website which is www.thebobbyscheme.org
Any queries, regarding the above, please do not hesitate to contact me
PCSO 7239 Leanne Fisher – Business Watch and Engagement Officer for South Cambs – based at Sawston Police Station, 4 Cambridge Road, Sawston, Cambridge, CB22 3DG leanne.fisher@cambs.pnn.police.uk - Telephone – 01223 497610.
See also advice following burglaries in the village from The Dry Drayton Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator, GrahamCarver