Heatwave Havoc: Burglars on the Prowl in Kent
As temperatures soar, so does crime in Kent. The Safer Summer initiative is urging locals to lock up tight and stay vigilant. Thieves love insecure homes – a simple open window or unlocked door is an open invitation to crime.
Burglar Alert: Multiple Break-ins Under Investigation
- Tovil: A man reportedly broke in through an unlocked door, making off with cash. Same suspect was seen testing windows and doors nearby.
- Maidstone: A suspect spotted keys left in a box outside a property. They used them to nab jewellery and money.
- Rochester: Parcels stolen from an unlocked porch.
- Folkestone: More than £1,000 stolen after an intruder slipped in through an unlocked back door.
All cases are active and police are on the hunt.
Summer Surge in Burglaries
Burglary spikes in summer are no surprise. August 2022 saw 436 home break-ins in Kent, compared to 387 in January. Opportunistic thieves take advantage of warm weather and careless homeowners.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home. But if you’ve been a victim of burglary, it can cast a shadow over your life,” said Detective Superintendent Lopa McDermott, Head of the Crime Squad.
“Leaving windows and doors open for a breeze makes it easier for crooks to strike when you’re not looking. Shut and lock up whenever you leave the room or home.”
Top Tips to Keep Burglars Out This Summer
- Lock all doors and windows – even if you’re just upstairs or popping out.
- Keep back doors and windows locked when answering the front door – some thieves use distractions.
- Install extra security: spy holes, door chains, better locks, and intruder alarms.
- Fit CCTV covering all entry points to deter and catch criminals.
- Mark valuables and register them at www.immobilse.com for recovery if stolen.
- Keep receipts and serial numbers for expensive items safe.
- Photograph and insure anything valuable or unique.
- Hide your valuables, or invest in a bolted safe or bank deposit box.
- Use timers on lights and radios to simulate occupancy.
- Secure gates, boundaries, sheds, bikes, tools, and garden equipment.
- Never hide spare keys outside in obvious places.
- Think twice before posting holiday snaps on social media – it alerts burglars to an empty home.
- Keep gardens tidy, prune bushes to remove hiding spots, and install security lighting.
- Pause milk and paper deliveries while away and have someone mow the lawn – avoid signs your home is empty.
For more on Kent Police’s Safer Summer campaign and how to keep your home safe, visit Kent Police Safer Summer.
