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Don't let burglars ruin your holiday

Dear Resident, 

 

We are asking people to consider home security ahead of a peak in holidays over the summer months.

According to research 77 percent of adults are planning a summer holiday meaning there is likely to be an increase in unoccupied properties in the county.

While we are seeing a 19 percent reduction in burglary this year (Jan – June 2025) compared to the previous year, opportunist thieves can use the holiday season to their advantage.

So we’re asking people to think about home security if they are planning on going away.

There are several steps people can take to protect their homes, particularly with the support of friends, family and neighbours.

Whether that be asking someone to move the bins, park on your drive or using timers on lights – there are lots of measures people can take to make their home look ‘lived in’ while they are away.

We have dedicated teams who are working hard to combat burglary and bring thieves to justice. Tackling it is a force priority as we aim to make Cambridgeshire an even safer place to live.

If you are going away consider:

  • Maintain a normal routine while you are away by asking a family member, friend or neighbour if they can:
  • Put the bins out
  • Open and close blinds/curtains as you would normally
  • Remove post and parcels that are delivered
  • Make your home look lived in:
  • Use smart bulbs or timers to switch lights on and off
  • Use the timer function to turn you TV on and off
  • If you have a smart device such as an Alexa set it to play music at certain times in the day.
  • Review your security:
  • Consider installing an alarm, outside light with a sensor
  • Consider installing CCTV/doorbell camera
  • Ensure all outbuildings and sheds are locked

    • Further information about holiday burglary advice is available on the force website – Going away? Don’t give it away | Cambridgeshire Constabulary 

     

    Kind regards, 

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    Message Sent By
    Matthew Brown
    (Police, Communications Assistant, Corporate Communications)
    Neighbourhood Alert