NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
Keep your vehicle secure: 29 May 2020
There have been thefts from motor vehicles in our local area. Please ensure that you do not leave any valuables on open display. If locking your vehicle with an automatic key fob please ensure that it has actually locked.
To report something suspicious, call 101. If a crime is in progress, call 999.
There is an active Neighbourhood Watch scheme covering both Learmonth Gardens and South Learmonth Gardens, providing many benefits to the area and to the resident, including a reduction on your insurance (ask your insurance company).
To optimise security of your property, Police Scotland have the following advice:
Tips: Vehicle security
Tips: Housebreaking security advice
Tips: Burglary advice
Tips: Festive season advice
Tips: Beat bogus callers
Tips: Holiday security advice
Tips: Garage and shed security
Tips: Cycle security
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Look for the British Standard Kitemark on your mortice locks

Doors and Locks

  • Five-lever mortice locks kitemarked to BS3621 fitted to solid core doors are an excellent security measure.
  • Glass panels adjacent to locks should be avoided.
  • Metal plates and strips can be bought from security shops to strengthen doors and frames.
  • Don't label spare sets of keys left with neighbours. If their house is broken into the thief gets two houses in one.
  • Avoid leaving spare keys where they can be easily found.

Lights

  • Dusk-to-dawn lighting and movement-sensitive exterior lights are an effective deterrent.
  • Timer switches (pictured) can be used on indoor lights, radios, TV's, etc. to give the impression that your home is occupied.

Windows

  • Shut and secure all windows.
  • Fit key operated locks to all windows and in particular vulnerable ground floor windows. Thieves risk attracting attention if they have to break enough glass to climb through. Remember to remove keys from locked windows and keep them out of sight.

Gardens

  • Cut back shrubs and trees that could provide cover at the front and rear of your home.
  • You can create uninviting barriers around your home by planting spiky hedges such as berberis or holly.

Alarms

  • Ensure fitted alarms are regularly maintained by the installers. If considering fitting an alarm ensure that you obtain quotes from National Security Inspectorate approved installers.

Friends and neighbours

  • Arrange for someone to look after your home whilst you are away.

For more information

Lothian & Scottish Borders Police
Officer in Charge of Inverleith Sector: Inspector Stephen Sutherland
Non-emergency number: 101
  • Speak to your local police officer
  • Report a crime that’s already happened, such as a theft or damage to property
  • Get crime prevention advice
  • Make us aware of any policing issues in your area
To report a crime anonymously, call Crimestoppers:
0800 555 111