Stay Safe This Winter

Living Magazines Stay Safe this winter Neighbourhood Watch

With a 7% rise in thefts from cars and vans over the last year, Herts Constabulary are handing out advice to help keep our vehicles safe.

‘We are reminding drivers not to leave valuables on view, and ensure items such as coats, bags or phones are removed from your vehicle,’ said Inspector Andrew Palfreyman of the Crime Reduction Unit.

Other advice includes:

  • Removing tools unless secured in an approved toolsafe
  • Fitting approved additional locks to van doors
  • Engraving tools with your postcode
  • Using an approved* steering lock or gear clamp and setting immobiliser alarms

In the meantime, Neighbourhood Watch is keeping up to date with ways to keep your neighbourhood secure.

‘Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) members receive OWL messages (Online Watch Link), which keep them informed of local incidents and events, and help people be aware of current crime trends and safety suggestions,’ explains Sandra Jackson, Dacorum Community Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator.

‘Berkhamsted and Tring have seen a lot of development over recent years and our local volunteer team is keen to sign up new members.

‘Crime is lower in NHW areas and taking steps to prevent yourself being a victim of crime is still relevant.’

Please email dac.nhw@gmail.com if you can offer an hour of your time to the NHW. To join go to www.owl.co.uk.

*Approved products available from Sold Secure: www.soldsecure.com or Secured By Design: www.securedbydesign.com.