GMP Launch Anti-Burglary Campaign

Communities in Manchester have been urged to be vigilant and take responsibility for their home's security as part of a new burglary campaign.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has launched the 'Your Community Needs You' campaign, which calls on the public to lock their windows and doors, look out for their neighbours and report suspicious activity in a bid to help drive down burglary as the nights get darker during the winter months.

GMP said that one in three burglaries happen to homes that are insecure and it is "more important than ever" that the public do everything in their power to warn off thieves.

Based on the famous World War One 'Your Country Needs You' poster, the campaign features GMP PCSOs pointing at the camera and asking the public to help them in their fight against crime.

Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan from Greater Manchester Police said: "It is no secret that the Force is currently going through some of the most challenging times. Burglary has a devastating effect on victims and we know that where burglaries do occur the impact on neighbours can be equally as bad. It is more important than ever for people to look out for each other.

"A great way to become active in your community is to join or set up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. As well as encouraging a great sense of community pride and cohesion, it's a great way of sharing information and deterring criminals from causing misery in your neighbourhood."

Police are also encouraging the public to keep their homes safe this winter using simple security tips, including:

• Use mortice locks on external doors and consider using split spindle locks on front doors.

• Alarms and lights used in the right way can be a huge deterrent to burglars looking to target properties that have easy access. Police recommend using a quality household alarm that protects all external doors and downstairs rooms and should be used when leaving the house and going to bed.

• Light timers should also be used if you are going to be out of the house when it is dark.

• External security lighting, shed alarms, window shock alarms and door chimes can be used as an extra deterrent.

(MH/CD)