Gardaí warn Limerick people to secure homes and property as good weather continues
Gardaí in Limerick are urging people not to leave windows and doors open
GARDAÍ are warning people to remain vigilant about keeping homes and property safe during the good spell of weather.
Sergeant Natasha Walsh of Henry Street garda station told Limerick Live: “The weather has been fabulous, summer is a busy time for communities across Limerick, we are seeing people out and about enjoying the good weather.
“One of the biggest mistakes we see is people leaving windows and doors unsecured while they’re out in the garden, visiting neighbours, or making a quick trip to the shops.”
Sergeant Walsh warned: “Opportunistic criminals only need a matter of seconds. Some straightforward advice, that we all know it but it’s hard to imagine anything bad happening when the sun is shining, always lock external doors, even if you’re only leaving home for a short period.
“Ground floor windows need to be secured, particularly if you are at the other side of the
house. Don’t leave valuable items such as handbags, keys, phones, wallets, or
laptops visible through open windows.”
Sergeant Walsh stressed that thieves will often find a way in, even if that’s unexpected. She cautioned: “We sometimes forget about upstairs windows, but a strategically placed bin or garage can allow someone to gain access to your home.
“Side gates can often be left open in fine weather, particularly if you have children coming in and out, I know it’s an inconvenience, but taking the time to secure the back of your home could save you a lot of expense in the long run.”
Sergeant Walsh added that trying to cool the car down while you get ready to leave the house can be tempting, but it’s also a tempting situation for an opportunistic thief.
“Leaving your car running to cool down is like extending a formal invitation to an opportunistic passer-by. It takes two seconds to reach in and grab a bag and by time the owner realises what has happened the thief is long gone.”