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Neighbourhood Watch

Summer Home Safety Advice

Summer Home Safety Advice

During the summer months, burglaries tend to increase as people leave windows open and spend more time in gardens. Here are some tips to keep your home secure.

Windows & Doors

  • Always lock doors and windows when you go out, even briefly
  • Use window locks — open windows in summer are an easy entry point
  • Don’t leave keys visible from windows or in locks
  • Ensure patio and French doors have additional bolts or locks

Garden & Outbuildings

  • Lock sheds, garages and outbuildings — garden equipment is valuable to thieves
  • Mark your tools and bikes with your postcode
  • Don’t leave ladders or other items that could help someone access upper windows

When You’re on Holiday

  • Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property
  • Use timer switches on lights
  • Cancel post and milk deliveries, or ask a neighbour to collect them
  • Don’t advertise your absence on social media

Report anything suspicious to Thames Valley Police on 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress.