Keep Doors Locked

6 April 2011, 16:37 | Updated: 6 April 2011, 16:39

Bedfordshire Police are urging residents to remember to double lock UPVC doors at night following an upturn in burglaries over the weekend.

Officers are investigating cases in Leighton Buzzard, Dunstable and Houghton Regis where doors were “popped” and easily to hand valuables, such as lap-top computers and mobile telephones stolen.

Chief Insp Neill Waring urged residents with UPVC doors to remember to lift the handle at night before they turn the key. Doing so means strong shoot bolts at the top and bottom of the door frame are in place and not just the central chamfered catch - which can be more easily forced.

It is also a good idea to keep valuables out of sight at night – including cars keys – and to take time to security mark items with a product like SmartWater.

Chief Insp Waring said: “We would reassure residents that we are doing all we can to apprehend those responsible for these burglaries. However, residents can help us by remembering to properly lock doors and by ensuring windows are shut at night.”

Anyone with information about burglary can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, text 07786 200011 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.