Detectives remind homeowners to keep all doors locked as evenings draw in

With the winter nights drawing in, detectives in Llanelli are reminding homeowners of the importance of keeping their doors and windows locked.

The days when residents could happily leave their homes unlocked are far behind us as opportunistic thieves seek out the easy targets.

“Luckily in Llanelli we don’t have a big problem with burglaries, but we would have even less if people remembered to lock all their doors and windows,” said Detective Inspector Richard Hopkin. “Even though Dyfed Powys is a very safe area to live, it doesn’t stop thieves trying their luck.

“But there are some simple steps people can take to make sure they don’t become victims of domestic burglary.

“And the key thing is to keep your doors and windows locked. Most domestic burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves with around three out of ten burglaries committed without the use of force. Burglars simply get in through an unlocked door or window.

“We have had two instances in recent weeks where a burglary has been committed in this way. So the message is clear – keep your doors and windows locked and help us prevent burglary in Llanelli.”

Other steps you can take to reduce the risk of burglary happening to you include:-

• Fit strong locks to your doors and windows and make sure you always keep them fully locked
• Try to make your home look occupied if you are away from your property overnight. Invest in a plug-in timer for lamps and radios
• Consider installing a burglar alarm. A burglar alarm fitted properly can deter a burglar and the sights of an alarm box outside your home may be enough to discourage them
• Prevent intruders getting to the back and sides of your home by installing strong fencing or gates
• Never leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place such as under the doormat, in a flowerpot or behind a loose brick – thieves know to look there first
• Make sure your room is well lit and use movement sensitive lights externally.
• If you are replacing or fitting new doors and windows, get ones that are certified to British Standard BS7950 (windows) and PAS 24-1 (doors)
• Fit a door chain or bar and door viewer (spy-hole) and use them every time someone calls.
• Ensure good quality locks are fitted to your shed and are securely locked. Windows should be fitted with locks