Crime Reduction Department 

Thames Valley Police 

302 North Row 

Witan Gate East 

Central Milton Keynes 

MK9 2DS 

Tel: 101 

 

 

BURGLARY ALERT - RESIDENTS 

 

Dear Resident, 

 

There have recently been a number of burglaries in the area where the homes of elderly residents have been entered for the purpose of stealing valuable items such as jewellery, cash and various other items. 

 

It is important that residents ensure that they check, shut and lock all doors and windows before going out and when any room is unoccupied. This includes if you are in a communal area of sheltered housing. Your own flat must be left secure. 

 

Doors with handle operated locking systems must be locked with the key. Just pulling the handle up is not enough, the key must be used. 

 

Back doors should not be left unlocked even if you are in the house. Always keep the doors locked unless you are actually using them. 

 

If someone calls unexpectedly at your door do not open it. Beware of people trying to trick their way in. Keep the door closed and locked. If in doubt tell the person that you are calling the Police. 

 

Do not keep large amounts of cash in the house as this can be a target for criminals. 

 

Do not leave your keys in the door or anywhere nearby where they could possible be hooked out by an arm or implement, but keep them in a safe place ready for use in case of an emergency to exit the house. 

 

If you have a security alarm system always use it when leaving the house and if possible overnight. 

 

If possible keep valuable items out of sight of doors and windows. 

 

Try to prevent access into your back garden by for example, padlocking any access gates, raising the fence or gate height with trellis and moving any climbing aids such as a wheelie bin away from outside the gate or fence 

 

Look out for suspicious activity in your area and if concerned phone the Police on 101 

 

Consider joining Thames Valley Alert to receive crime prevention advice and crime alerts so you can be on your guard. Sign up at www.thamesvalleyalert.co.uk 

 

Information on Neighbourhood Watch can be obtained at www.mkneighbourhoodwatch.org 

 

Further information and advice on crime prevention can be obtained from the Thames Valley Police web site at www.thamesvalley.police.uk and by selecting the Crime Reduction Section or via www.safermk.com