Reduce chances of residential burglary

On Friday afternoon, January 24, police and boas of the municipality of Aalten held a "white feet action. With this action they want to make residents aware of the risks of burglary. Between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., five police officers and five municipal enforcers went out in Dinxperlo. They checked at various homes whether doors and windows were properly locked and whether gates and sheds were locked.
When this was not the case, they left behind a "white foot": a flyer with the text "This shoe print could have belonged to a burglar. It was notable that some residents, despite being at home, did not notice officers walking through their yard. This emphasizes the importance of being alert and properly locking doors and windows even when you are home.

"A residential burglary has a great impact on the sense of security. Every opportunity for burglars is therefore one too many," said Mayor Anton Stapelkamp. "Together with the police, we are committed to making residents aware to take measures against burglars and break-ins."

Ask questions of police and boas at weekly market in Dinxperlo

Do you have questions about how to prevent a residential burglary? Or has this happened in your immediate vicinity and would you like to talk about it? On Friday, January 31, police and boas will be at the weekly market in Dinxperlo to answer questions and give tips. You are welcome, also for other matters or to discuss suspicious situations.

Here's how to reduce the chances of a home burglary

• Always close windows and doors tightly.
• Make sure you have sturdy locks.
• Make your home appear occupied, for example, with a timer switch for lighting.
• Inform your neighbors. They can keep an eye on you, clean up your mail, remove twigs by the door and park their car in front of your house.
• Make sure there are no objects around your home on which burglars can climb, such as containers, stairs or scaffolding.
• Have your home checked for compliance with the Politiekeurmerk Veilig Wonen (PKVW).
• Are you not at home and your neighbors see something suspicious? Ask them to call 911 immediately. Raising the alarm quickly increases the chance of catching burglars. 112, it catches criminals!

Beware of fake agents!

In addition to residential burglaries, fake cops are also active on a regular basis. These scammers pose as police officers and supposedly call you to warn you about burglary. They then suggest that you pick up your valuables and store them "safely. In reality, this is an attempt to steal your property.

Here's how to recognize a fake cop

• The police never ask for your PIN over the phone.
• Police do not inquire about valuables in the home.
• Police do not collect or photograph valuables.
• Real cops can always identify themselves with an official police ID.
• In doubt? Trust your gut. In the event of a suspicious situation, call 911 immediately.