Wilmslow Burglaries

Following a Large increase in Burglaries, Police are advising residents to be extra vigilant in the Wilmslow, Handforth and Alderley edge Areas.

 Over the last few weeks there has been a massive increase in burglaries, with many houses being 'fished' whereby the keys to the house and car are being accessed by a long pole (also known as the 'hook and cane' approach), to reach people's keys through their letter plate. Other methods employed are less subtle, with forced entry through doors and windows to the rear of the house. In the majority of cases, thieves are targeting car keys so that they can steal cars from the driveway.

A police spokesperson said "Could I please remind you to close and lock all windows and doors when leaving your property and also leave lights and alarms on so that it looks as if someone is at home. Even if you are in the house please keep rear doors locked. Hide all car keys, never leave them on display on windowsills and hall tables. Put cars in the garage if possible."

I would add when securing your home at night, please make sure after checking and deadlocking your doors and windows to keep your keys(including any car keys) away form view from windows or letterboxes. Additionally, Please make sure the keys are in a safe place - where they can be found if you need them to escape in an emergency, such as a fire. it is advised to leave them at the top of he stairs where all occupants know where to find them if a situation arises. Also if the worst happens, an intruder will find them without disturbing your family.

Don't Automatically think its only large, New, German cars. I know of a smart 8 year old Mini Cooper S being targeted.

According to Wilmslow.co.uk -"During March house burglaries have occurred in the following areas : Knutsford Road, Bulkeley Road Handforth, Broadway, Fulshaw Park South, Swinley Chase, Westminster Drive, Alveston Drive, Albany Road and Stanneylands Road. There were attempted burglaries on Alderley Road, Thorngrove Road and Oak Lane. In addition, vehicles were stolen from the following areas: Grangeway Road, Delamere Road, Derwent Drive Handforth, Dean Drive, Hampton Court, Marina Close Handforth, Wilmslow Road Handforth and Kilncroft Lane Handforth. A motorcycle was also taken from the Knowle Park area of Handforth. Please contact the police on 101 if you notice anybody acting suspiciously in your area and take down any registration numbers belonging to suspicious vehicles."