Jewellery is being taken in one in three burglaries in Sutton borough – and police are urging householders to take steps to keep their jewellery secure. During the 12 months to the 21st June 2012 there were 250 burglaries across the borough which involved jewellery being stolen.

Sutton Crime Prevention officer Duncan Harris said every household in the borough is likely to have some jewellery from wedding and engagement rings through to watches and necklaces given as presents, or for ceremonial purposes.

Police tips to help keep your jewellery secure include:

–       Keep a photographic library of your jewellery by photographing each piece on a flat surface next to a ruler to give an indication of size

–       Check that your jewellery is covered by your home insurance – if not, arrange specific cover for it

–       Mark your jewellery using UV-type property marking kits (available online)

–       Invest in a safe

–       Ask your bank about safety deposit boxes – check with your bank about the cost

Of course, make sure your home is secure – so lock your doors and windows, install timer switches to make it look like you are at home when you are out, and invest in an alarm system.

Police carry out both uniform and plain clothes patrols every day to deter burglary as well as carry out stop and searches on individuals to disrupt criminal activities.

For further crime prevention advice, contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods Team by visiting:  www.met.police.uk/sutton  Click on the link for Safer Neighbourhoods.
Alternatively, obtain your local SNT telephone number by calling Sutton Police station on 101.