A survey carried out by Gwent Police shows that the annoying but catchy ‘Be Aware’ song, reminding people to lock up, IS helping to reduce the number of insecure properties. The force has teamed up Gio Compario, the opera singer who advertises Newport based insurance comparison site Go Compare, to record a 40 second advert.
In the survey, almost 90% of people said it would stick in their minds, and encourage them to lock up. Twenty thousand leaflets backing the message have been delivered across Gwent to areas where the number of burglaries has increased.
Tackling burglary is a Gwent Police priority, with more than 400 arrests in several targeted operations. Superintendent Rhiannon Kirk, who is leading the anti burglary operation, said:
“The joint police and community effort is paying off. We are seeing fewer domestic burglaries – 250 in July compared to 270 in June, and other types of burglary have also dropped from 354 in May to 316 in July.”
“Even the climate can affect burglary patterns. When it’s wet, people shut and lock their doors and windows and there are fewer burglaries.”
A schools competition will be launched when the new term starts, in which pupils can draw a picture of a safe house, or sing the ‘Be Aware’ song, to win prizes varying from an IPod Nano to a visit by the force helicopter. The idea is that children will nag their parents to be more security conscious.
“We are still appealing to people to help us by helping themselves, added Superintendent Kirk.
Older and vulnerable residents can also get practical help and advice with items like new locks from The Bobby Van scheme – officers are able to refer people to the scheme.
“Get in touch with your local neighbourhood policing team if you need help,” concluded Superintendent Kirk.
