Safe and secure in sheltered housing

14 November 2008

The Wrekin Housing Trust, in partnership with West Mercia Police, has been working to make its sheltered housing residents feel safe and secure in their homes.

The Trust and the police are working together to trial new security cameras, which fit in the spy hole in residents' front doors and are connected to a digital camera. The camera senses whenever a person walks past, or calls at the door, and automatically begins recording images and sound. This recording can then be used in court to identify bogus callers.

In addition to these cameras, special slots are being installed in some residents' front doors so that callers ID badges can be passed through to the occupant, without having to open the door.

Police Officers, Community Support Officers and Police Cadets were out and about today delivering information packs to sheltered housing residents, talking to them about the new equipment and providing crime prevention advice.

Pamela Edwards, general manager for supported housing at The Wrekin Housing Trust, said: "There is a perception that bogus callers target elderly residents and con their way into their homes with the intention of stealing their belongings. These new cameras will capture images of anyone calling on our sheltered housing residents and will be used in court if need be. The message now is if you prey on elderly residents, you will get caught."

PC Fred Jones, Telford Police's Crime Risk Manager said: "This initiative coincides perfectly with the launch of West Mercia Constabulary's 'Lighten Up!' campaign and we are delighted to be working with our partners from the Wrekin Housing Trust to make this trial possible.

"Although this particular initiative is trying new techniques to safeguard residents against bogus callers, please remember there are other simple steps everyone can take to improve their home security. Crimes like burglary are often the result of a burglar taking an opportunity presented to them, such as an open window.

"A simple action like leaving a light left on suggests that someone is at home and increases the chance that a burglar will be seen, both of which will put them off."

Please remember these simple tips to keep your home secure:

· A well-lit home gives the impression that someone is in
· Use timer switchers to turn lights on while you are out
· Save energy and money by using low-energy or dusk to dawn sensor light bulbs
· Don't leave curtains closed during the daytime, only in the evening/at night
· Lock all windows and doors
· Keep gates well secured
· Keep valuable items out of view

For more crime prevention advice visit the West Mercia Constabulary website at www.westmercia.police.uk


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