POLICE in the area are stepping up their crime prevention programme with updated advice to householders to help ward off the criminals.

They have repeated their dark nights warning to always leave a light on inside the house – choosing to illuminate well-used rooms such as the lounge or bedroom and not a hallway or other largely unused area.

“The intention is to create the impression that someone is in – a significant deterrent,” said Dave Whitteron, Neighbourhood Watch Liaison officer.

“ Illuminate the areas of your home which are most likely to achieve this. This will vary from house to house. Timer switches are an excellent way of triggering one or more lights. As daylight hours grow longer, reset the timer to activate later.

“In the middle of winter, a house with someone at home will often have lights on in the early afternoon and the timer needs to be set accordingly.

“Use lighting outside the house at both the front and back. Fit low energy dusk to dawn lights. They are cheap to install and run. They will lighten up any areas that would be burglars could use to hide, and they don't annoy your neighbours.

“Burglars do not want to be caught and therefore do not want to be seen. Darkness allows criminals to feel comfortable and improvements in home lighting will make them feel exposed. Remember it is the burglar’s impression that he or she can be seen – or might be seen – that matters most, not whether someone is actually watching.”

For a relatively small outlay homes can be made more secure. Help reduce the risk of burglary by taking some simple precautions:

Improve the security of your doors and windows.

Remember to remove keys from locked windows and keep them out of sight.Š

Exterior doors, front and back, should be kept in good condition and if possible be fitted with a five-lever mortice deadlock and bolts at the top and bottom.

CONTACT: For more information the Kirklees crime reduction officers can be contacted as follows: Huddersfield – 01484 436839 Dewsbury – 01924 431048 Email: EACrimeRed@westyorkshire.pnn.police.uk