Police 'dark nights' warning for residents

The Metropolitan police has launched its seasonal awareness campaign to combat burglary, robbery and anti-social behaviour.

Each borough, including Enfield, has been asked to have in place plans to address seasonal rises in burglary, robbery and anti-social behaviour.

As part of the continued activity to target known and wanted burglary offenders in London, a pre-planned operation took place across the boroughs of Enfield and Barnet at the beginning of the month.

Nine search warrants were executed at addresses resulting in the arrest of seven people for theft, drug and other associated violent offences. A quantity of stolen goods were recovered and are in the process of being identified to their rightful owners.

Police will also be using the campaign to call on Enfield residents to take simple steps to secure their home from burglars.

Ten top burglary crime prevention tips:

1. Mark or etch your property with your postcode, house or flat number or the first three letters of your house name.
2. Register items with a serial number at www.immobilise.com
3. Do not leave your car keys, valuables or ID documents near a door, letterbox or window.
4. Always check who's at the door and don't open it if you feel anxious.
5. Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes.
6. Keep your valuables out of sight.
7. Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home.
8. Fit a mortice lock to your front door and other external doors. Consider installing a burglar alarm.
9. Always keep sheds and outbuildings locked.
10. Cancel milk or other deliveries if you will be away for days or weeks at a time.