Households warned to tighten security in new Lockout scheme

6.59.15pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 30th Apr 2007

Residents and businesses who offer easy pickings for thieves will receive written reminders from police not to invite crime.

From 1 May officers who spot open windows, valuables on show or other lapses in security will deliver special forms to warn the occupiers that their property is at risk. If people are in at the time they will also receive on-the-spot crime prevention advice. The new Vulnerable Premises Scheme is being launched by the Richmond upon Thames Community Safety Partnership, embracing the police, Richmond Council and other agencies. It's all part of Operation Lockout which aims to stop criminals stealing from homes and workplaces. It will identify vulnerable residents including the elderly and physically impaired who will be offered help from crime prevention officers.

Cllr David Williams, Cabinet Member for Communities on Richmond Council, said:??"Burglary rates continue to fall in Richmond upon Thames but opportunist thieves are still preying on people who fail to heed crime prevention warnings. Some people still leave valuables like car keys and laptops on show or do not secure ladders and tools which thieves will use to break into their properties. It's like laying out the red carpet for criminals. This excellent new initiative will drive home the message to be vigilant and let criminals know that they are not welcome in this borough."