Barrow homeowners are being asked to remain vigilant as darker nights begin.
Cumbria Police are asking people to take steps to protect their homes ahead of the winter months and to lock doors and windows and keep valuables out of site.
Officers said opportunistic thieves often look for easy targets, trying door handles and windows for quick access. They will also look for empty properties or properties with valuables in plain view.
People are encouraged to make their home harder to access by following home security tips, including:
- Lock all doors and windows before you go out and ensure that your house and keys are secure before you go to bed
- Remove keys from locks and keeping them out of reach and out of sight, not on a hall table
- Consider keeping a light or lamp on if you are out or installing automatic lights – especially if you are going away for prolonged periods of time
- Consider installing real or dummy CCTV
Detective Inspector Mike Kirkham Barrow CID, said: “Criminals often seek out easy opportunities, and the longer, darker nights give them more chances to strike—especially if they can enter a home without needing to break in.
“It’s important for people to take simple precautions, like locking doors and windows—even when they’re inside—to reduce the risk of becoming a target.
“Sharing practical advice based on our experience helps raise awareness and encourages people to take small but effective steps to protect their homes.
“Theft has no place in Cumbria. It’s a deeply harmful crime that thrives on taking what doesn’t belong to them.”
If you see any suspicious activity, please contact police on 101. If you witness a crime in action, call 999.
Any reports will be investigated under Operation Themis – Cumbria Constabulary’s response to and focus on burglaries.
