Police are warning people who use key safes to be cautious
after recent burglaries involving key safe break-ins.
Officers would like carers, relatives and neighbours to be extra vigilant as it is often older or less mobile people who use key safes to allow carers or family members access to their homes.
Superintendent Trevor Margenout, who leads Avon and Somerset’s fight against doorstep crime, said: “We would like people to be extra careful when using the safes.
“Make sure that if you are going to install one it is placed in a discreet location, so that it can’t be easily seen by passers by and they can’t see the combination being entered.”
A key safe is a secure metal box which can be secured next to your door. A single copy of your key/s are placed inside but can only be retrieved by someone who knows the correct code to open the box.
It is up to you who you give the code to and you can change the code as often as you like.
Units can be wall-mounted, have a locking shackle or be or attached to the top of a door and kept in place by closing the door.
Top tips to keep out burglars and doorstep criminals:
If you are out…
• Always lock unattended windows and doors.
•Leave on a light or radio, or set timers
•Fit a security alarm
•Register your property at www.immobilise.com
•Download tracking software on to any items such as mobiles and laptops
•Look out for your neighbour – if you see anything suspicious in your neighbourhood, call 999 immediately. Otherwise call 101.
•Don’t leave packaging for expensive goods outside
If someone calls at your home…
•If you are not sure who is at your door and you are not expecting any visitors don’t open it.
•Have a safety chain fitted and always attach the chain before opening the door.
•Call a neighbour or friend nearby to come along and check out the caller before you open the door.
•Many service providers provide password schemes and it can be helpful to sign up to these. When unannounced callers knock at your doorthey should know the password if they are genuine.
•If somebody asks for your help, needs to make a telephone call, claims to have lost a ball in your garden, needs a drink or pen and paper, for example – don’t invite them into your house. If you really want to offer help, make them wait outside and while you are away from your door close and lock it. Alternatively call a friend or neighbour to come and assist.
•Remember it’s your doorstep, your decision.