Police in Cardiff are investigating the attempted burglary of a detached house on King George V Drive in the Heath area of the city.
The incident occurred sometime between 2.00pm and 4.45pm on Tuesday 15th July when an attempt was made to gain access to the house via an insecure rear window. The property’s burglar alarm was activated during the course of the offence.
Detective Constable Belle Hodgkinson of Cardiff CID said: “We are appealing for anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area of King George V Drive on Tuesday 15th July.
“The alarm was activated and no access was gained to the house. Did you see anyone making off in the area around the time in question, you may have heard the alarm activated.”
Anyone with any information concerning this incident is asked to contact South Wales Police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 and quote reference 1400254803.
D C Hodgkinson has also reminded householders of the need to remember to keep their homes secure – especially during the current period of exceptionally hot weather. “We all like being outside in the summer and enjoying the sunshine but it is important to keep your home secure so that you can relax knowing your property is safe,” she said.
“More than a third of all burglaries take place at homes where doors and windows have been left unlocked. A house which doesn’t have easy access is more likely to deter a thief.
“Even if you are out in the garden enjoying a barbeque or watering your plants, remember to lock unattended windows and doors and put bags, keys, mobiles and valuables out of sight and out of reach of cat flaps and letter boxes.
“Some criminals will seek out insecure properties where they can find an easy target.
“Always keep your possessions in a secure place and a simple precaution such as remembering to lock doors and windows can save a lot of distress and inconvenience in the long run.
“If you are working in your garden or just popping next door, always make sure your house is secure. A few minutes checking doors and windows just before bed time can save a tremendous amount of heartache, expense and hassle in the long term.”
D C Hodgkinson also recommends that spare keys should not be left in hiding places such as under the doormat or in a flowerpot – thieves know all the hiding places.
“Don’t leave a window open for your cat to get in and out. If you have ladders which have to be left outside, padlock them to something secure so you are the only person who can use them,” she said.
South Wales Police also advise householders that if they require any advice on improving the security of their home they can contact the Crime Prevention Officer at their local police station, their Community Safety Partnership or their Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Top Tips to keep your home safe in summer:
- Always secure windows and doors – even in warmer weather and especially at night.
- Keep small high-value items like your car keys, mobile phone, wallet, handbag and jewellery out of sight, and ensure they can not be seen through cat flaps and letter boxes.
- Don’t keep pin numbers in your diary or saved on your mobile phone.
- Set light switch timers for when you are out or away on holiday
- Take an interest in the security at the homes of vulnerable family members and look out for your neighbours.
- Report any suspicious behaviour immediately through a 999 call. It is common for an offender to checkout a number of properties for entry points before finding a vulnerable home.
- Keep photos of your jewellery, take a note of serial numbers and mark your property with a forensic code liquid, like SmartWater.
- You should also register your property at www.immobilise.com.
