Shropshire Star

Shropshire police issue burglary warnings ahead of clocks change

As the clocks go back this weekend police in Shropshire are urging people not to let burglars take advantage of the change.

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Police are warning of possible break ins

On Sunday most people will be enjoying an extra hour as we leave British Summer Time, however police in the county said they want to make sure the time isn’t ruined by burglars and thieves using the cover of darkness to commit crime.

Superintendent Mo Lansdale said: “We often see an increase in burglaries and valuables stolen from cars as the clocks go back, with thieves using the cover of darkness to take advantage of poor crime prevention.

“There is plenty residents can to do help prevent themselves from being targeted and we’d always urge they take a few moments to consider home and car security.

“Some simple measures for this time of year can include using light timers to go on when you’re not in and installing outside security lighting and if you can park your car somewhere that is well lit rather than a secluded street, these can all help prevent it from being targeted.

“While these are some examples of more sophisticated crime prevention measures the most simplest of them all, and this applies all year round not just at this time of year, is to make sure front and back doors are locked.

"Even if you’re in the house, if someone can get in without you realising it is simply not worth taking the risk.”

For information on crime prevention people can visit the West Mercia Police website at westmercia.police.uk/article/1955/Home.

When do the clocks change?

Clocks go back one hour at 2am on Sunday.