Kingsbridge Police gives advice about keeping property safe from thieves

The Kingsbridge Police team has taken to social media to warn people in the South Hams to be vigilant about burglars. 

Last night, Monday, 21 October, Devon and Cornwall Police officers throughout the Torbay area dealt with incidents involving "thefts of vehicles, thefts from vehicles and a burglary where the suspected intent was to… steal a vehicle". 

The post stated that although the incidents were in Torbay "we know this can happen in the more rural parts of South Devon" and said: "our message is to stay vigilant".

They also shared the following the simple steps below, which can make it harder for these criminals to target you and your property:

• Keep keys as far away from the car as possible, preferably in a faraday bag to stop the thieves using a relay device (Note: this is for newer cars with keyless entry/start, not a 1998 1.2L Renault Clio Biarritz… Fun fact: my second car) 
• Keep your keys away from the front door, preferably out of sight, to prevent key-hooking methods through your letter box (think Mr Tickle with a coat-hanger)
• Keep all windows closed and doors locked at night or when you’re not at home (keeps your heating bill down too)
• If you have multiple vehicles, try to block one in with another
• Do not leave valuables in plain sight within your vehicle
• If you have a garage (and it isn’t full of tat from the 90s and a stand-up paddleboard you never use) utilise it to store your vehicle
• If you park on a road, park under street lighting if possible
• Lock up all equipment, including pedal cycles in a shed or garage, or at least to something immovable. 
• Try not to post on social media that you’re away or on holiday – don’t advertise an empty home! (No more 11am beer photos at Bristol Airport please…)

If you see anything suspicious, please call the Police either via 999 or the 101 telephone service or use the force website: https://orlo.uk/EIfmC  

They added: "Thanks all, be safe and be nice."