Police in Norwich are urging local residents to come forward with information after recent burglaries.

Officers from Earlham, Larkman and Marlpit and University and Eaton Safer Neighbourhood Teams are also reminding people to step up the security in their homes.

There have been recent burglaries in the areas where mainly laptops have been stolen.  The incidents are happening overnight due to insecure doors and windows during the hot weather.

Temporary Inspector Chris Brooks from the SNT’s said ”We are aware that during the warmer temperatures local residents are more prone to leave their windows and doors open especially at night.  However leaving them open in your home can lead to unwanted people targeting properties.

“Burglaries are often crimes committed by opportunistic thieves so by removing attractive and expensive items from display, such as laptops and car keys, householders can help prevent these crimes from happening.

“We would ask members of the community to report anyone they see acting suspiciously to police.  Also if they have any information about who is handling the stolen goods, we would like to hear from them.”

Crime prevention advice from Norfolk Constabulary to improve the security around your home includes:

• If you are replacing or fitting new doors and windows, get ones that are certified to British Standard BS7950 (windows) or PAS 24-1 (doors)
• Fit mortise locks (Kitemarked BS3621) to all front and back doors and locks to all downstairs windows or windows which are easy to reach remove and have below:
• Fit and use window locks on all accessible windows – both upstairs and downstairs.
• Keep your house and car keys safe and away from doors and windows
• Fit a burglar alarm, but make sure it is installed by a company who is registered with SSAIB or NSI and is fitted to BS EN50131.
• Keep your garage and garden shed locked with proper security locks, and keep any tools secure, out of sight and property marked
• Trim back any plants or hedges that a burglar could hide behind
• Make sure you have up-to-date insurance.
• Join a Home Watch Scheme and make sure you inform your insurance company of any security measures you take – it might reduce your premiums.

Your dedicated team is working hard to make your neighbourhood a safer place to live. If you have any information regarding burglaries in your area you can contact your SNT on 0845 456 4567 or alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.