Cops urge security improvements to deter burglars

(CNS): Local police are warning householders and business owners to boost security over the holiday period to keep burglars away from their Christmas gifts and cash. Police said that last week that they had dealt with seven burglaries over two days and recent surveys have indicated that most break-ins are down to lax security and insecure doors and windows.  While officers routinely visit business premises throughout the year, this week visits will focus on festive safety and security. Officers will spend time with business owners and staff providing them with security advice. On Friday 20 December home security and crime prevention tips will be on offer at the local supermarkets as RCIPS officers will be stationed at several stores.

“We are all aware that burglaries have been on the rise recently – and it’s clear that the police and the public need to do much more to help prevent these crimes,” said Chief Inspector Angelique Howell, head of George Town police station. “Most burglaries are opportunist, with criminals scouring neighbourhoods looking for insecure homes, or homes with poor lighting, overgrown hedging or locks that can easily be forced.

“Only last week 7 burglaries took place over one 48 hour period – of those burglaries 6 homes had been insecure with doors or windows being left open or unlocked. In a recent dip sample over a three month period 38 of 188 burglaries were as a result of premises being insecure. We are not at all laying blame on the victims with these statements – but merely underlining the importance of ensuring that your property is secure, doors and windows locked and adequate lighting in place. None of us want to be victims of crime – so let’s work together to make it as difficult as we can for would-be burglars,” she said adding that she hoped to see as many people as possible at the roadshows on Friday.

The supermarkets involved include all Foster Foods Fair IGA Supermarket locations, Hurley’s Supermarket in Grand Cayman; Billy’s Supermarket in Cayman Brac; and Village Square Supermarket in Little Cayman. Police will be there from 11.00am until 1.00pm to provide lunchtime shoppers with information on how to make life more difficult for would-be burglars.

“Don’t worry if you can’t make it along; you can check out the tips on our website, or contact your local police station where officers will be happy to help, ”she said.

Some general burglary prevention steps include the obvious, such as fitting locks on all windows and doors and using deadbolts to discourage nosy neighbours.

CI Howell encouraged anyone who is not actively participating in a Neighbourhood Watch scheme to contact their local coordinator or their nearest police station for more information.

“If anyone wishes to speak to a police officer about home or business security they should contact their local police station,” she added.