A number of cars have been stolen by thieves taking the keys through letterboxes and from inside the homes.
Thieves are preying on houses which have left their vehicle keys on show near to the letterbox; this could include on a window shelf, in a coat pocket, resting on a banister or simply keys placed on the floor as you walk in.
The offenders simply reach through the letterbox with a hook and bring them back through the letterbox to steal the vehicle.
Detective Inspector Dave Allen, Priority Crime Team for Thames Valley Police said: ‘‘Burglary is a horrendous crime that has a huge impact on people’s lives. You can reduce the likelihood of being a victim of burglary by thinking about the security of your vehicle keys in your home.’
‘‘Do not leave them lying on a coffee table in the hallway or in your bag at the foot of your stairs. Put them away out of sight or, even better, hide them away somewhere.
‘‘Also, please double lock your front door at night to enhance your security. Burglars are opportunists and if you make life difficult for them you will be unlikely to become a victim. These really simple measures could prevent a life changing experience for you and your family.’’
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