Don’t become an easy target for criminals

This week, I’m urging residents in the East Kilbride and Avondale area to make sure they don’t make themselves easy targets for criminals.

I want to remind the residents of East Kilbride and Strathaven of the importance of securing your property, during the day and at night.

Please always ensure that you lock your front and back doors. And never leave keys in the locks. Ensure that your windows are locked and don’t leave keys or valuable items in sight of windows.

It can be very easy for someone to sneak into your house when you are upstairs and you may not hear them.

Last Tuesday, for instance, a car was stolen from Lindsayfield’s Bancroft Avenue while the owner was asleep. We are appealing for witnesses. If valuables, including car keys, are visible from your windows then your home may be targeted.

I would also encourage all residents to take the time to review the security of their property.

Please consider renewing old door locks and replacing rusty snip locks to garden gates.

Small improvements to security can help to prevent crime and deter opportunist criminals.

If you are over 65 years old, and you have concerns about the security of your property, please contact South Lanarkshire Council’s Safe as Houses on (01555) 666200.

They can provide and install a variety of security measures to your property completely free of charge.

If you see someone acting suspiciously please contact East Kilbride Police Office on 101.

Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Wishing everyone a safe week.