The Gap Neighbourhood Watch

Neighbourhood Watch The Gap 4061

Break-in to Unit and

Accommodation Unit Garages – Acting Sargent Paul Bagnell

Inner West Police wish to advise residents that there has recently been an increase in the number of incidents where thieves have gained unlawful access to open and secure car parks of unit complexes and apartment blocks in Inner West suburbs.

The thieves are generally entering the garage area by sneaking in through an open garage door.

In some cases, the thieves have used physical force to break the padlock or have been simply able to enter the storage area or vehicle due to it being left unlocked.

Items being targeted include: Bicycles, vehicle registration plates, tools, sporting equipment, luggage, personal documentation and household items.

Police recommend the following for GARAGE AND VEHICLE SECURITY TIPS: • Avoid storing excess belongings piled up in unsecured garage areas • Property located in storage cages should be hidden from view by using screening material

• Use a quality padlock attached to a strong thick metal chain to limit the success of bolt cutters • Always secure your bicycle and/or motorbike to something solid • Never leave valuables in your vehicle including your garage door remote. • Always lock your vehicle • Check the garage door is closed completely so potential offenders can’t sneak in • Beware of any suspicious behaviour and report it to the police or building manager • If you’re accessing the complex and a stranger approaches for entry, don’t allow them in. If you feel confident, ask them about the purpose of their visit and refer them to the building manager • If a stranger requests entry through the intercom system, don’t allow them access to the building • Legitimate visitors may still be potential offenders. Avoid allowing them unsupervised access to communal areas of the building. You are responsible for your visitors. • Close any communal doors that are open and unattended • Don’t prop doors open

• Don’t lend keys to anyone.

If you and your neighbour are aware of one another’s general habits, you can help prevent crime by being alert to anything out of the ordinary as often this kind of information about suspicious incidents has helped avert many break-ins and deterred offenders.

Your Suburb, Your Home, Your Family, Your Community 4061 www.fb.com/neighbourhoodwatchthegap neighbourhoodwatchthegap@yahoo.com.au www.nhwq4061.com