Beware of night prowlers

Sep 29 2011 by Bryan Brough, Paisley Daily Express

LATE-NIGHT prowlers have been targeting residents in and around Paisley.

Attempts have been made to prise open the back doors of homes and, in some cases, keys have been left in locks – making life easy for sneaky thieves.

Parked cars have also been targeted, with windows being smashed and doors being forced open.

The thieves have struck in Paisley, Renfrew, Johnstone, Erskine and Barrhead.

Inspector Duncan Sloan, who is based at Paisley Police Office, has urged families to make sure windows and doors are not left open and that their cars are locked at all times.

You should also make sure that car keys are left in a safe place at home, well away from prying eyes.

Among the possessions which have been stolen are purses, cash, keys and electrical gadgets such as iPods and DVD players.

In most cases, the crooks have sneaked in via a back door or reached through an open window to get what they want.

Mr Sloan said: “This type of crime can easily be avoided. By taking a few simple steps, homeowners can avoid becoming a victim.”

Crime prevention officers at Paisley Police Office have offered the following security advice:

Check that all doors and windows are locked when going out, even for a short time

Don’t leave keys in the locks after locking your doors

Don’t leave valuables near doors or windows, where they can be easily seen. Keep them in a safe, secure place

If you see anyone acting suspiciously at either your own home or at a neighbour’s call your local police station. Information on any criminal activity can also be passed on anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.