Residents Urged to Turn The Clocks Back on Crime

Date published: 24 October 2008

As the clocks go back this weekend, police are urging residents to help beat the rise in burglaries by taking simple steps to keep their homes secure.

Police warn that there is usually an increase in break-ins at this time of year as evenings become darker. By following the simple advice of putting an alarm on, locking all doors and windows and leaving a light on when leaving the house, residents can help deter thieves.

In the past month alone there have been 297 more burglaries across Greater Manchester compared to last year and police warn this figure is expected to rise as the nights draw in.
Superintendent Warren McGuire of Operation Guardian, GMP’s response to burglary, said: “As the clocks go back, evenings become darker and create ideal opportunities for thieves. By remembering to lock doors and windows and leave a light on, homes will be less attractive as a target for burglars.

“One in three burglaries across the Force is down to people leaving doors and windows unlocked or open. For this reason, combating burglary is our top priority and we are committing extra resources as part of Operation Guardian to combat the recent rise in break-ins.”

Over the next few months, there will be more officers on the streets to act as a deterrent to thieves, disrupt criminal activity and reassure residents living in vulnerable areas. Known offenders will also be targeted across the Force, with officers making arrests and bringing them to justice.


The call for residents to lock up is part of Operation Guardian, a major initiative to combat the recent rise in burglary across the region.