Dorset Police flying squad with a difference

Dorset Police is flying to new heights in a bid to raise awareness of how to prevent becoming a victim of burglary.

A week of action began on 23 July and will run until 29 July, reminding people to secure their homes this summer.

As part of daily patrols, neighbourhood policing teams across the county have been launching paper airplanes through doors and windows of insecure properties.

The airplanes contain advice on securing properties and information on how to find out some simple steps to prevent an opportunistic burglar entering your home.

When neighbourhood policing teams spot an open door or window, they will be attempting to contact the homeowner and offer advice and crime prevention tips.

Over the three-month period from 1 June to 31 August 2017 a total of 431 residential burglaries were reported in Dorset. In comparison, during three winter months between December 2017 and February 2018 a total of 361 burglaries were reported.

“During the warmer evenings, more people tend to leave windows and doors open and enjoy their back gardens out of sight of the front of their properties,” said detective inspector Neil Wright of the priority crime team.

“We have launched this new initiative to raise awareness of simple steps the public can take to prevent a burglary. If your home looks insecure to you, it will look insecure to a burglar.

“Remember to always lock your doors and windows wherever possible. Don’t give burglars the opportunity to gain access to your property.

“If you are going away, let your neighbours know and ask them to keep an eye on your property or park their car on your drive to give the impression your property is occupied. Also, be sure to cancel any regular deliveries such as milk or newspapers.”