"Lights Out, You're Out"

Police Scotland's Campaign to Reduce Winter Break-ins

Police Scotland are warning homeowners to be extra cautious over the winter season to help reduce the risk of becoming a crime victim.

At the launch of the force's winter housebreaking campaign, officers issued a reminder to residents that using a timer switch or leaving a light on when they go out can dramatically reduce the chance of having a break-in.

Householders are urged to take a few simple steps to secure their homes before they go out, including:

• use timer switches to bring on lamps and radios to make it look as if there is someone home;


• ensure that all doors and windows are secure when you leave home and when you go to bed;


• security mark your property with a UV marker pen - take pictures of items you cannot mark;


• record the makes, models and serial numbers of your property;


• if possible use security lighting at the front and rear of your property;


• take other steps to leave the house looking occupied if you go away for a few days, for example, consider using the Post Office Keepsafe Scheme to stop letters building up behind your door or in your mailbox.