IN this month’s column I would like to give readers some crime prevention advice particularly relevant to this time of year.

The first is a reminder for cyclists to take care of their bike. With the schools closed for the summer there may be more people out and about on their bikes.

If you leave them unattended, even for a short time, please lock them up securely. It’s also a good idea to keep a record of serial numbers.

You could consider registering your property with a security website who will hold details on a database or mark it with SmartWater or specialist ‘tamper resistant’ labelling.

Some Local Policing Teams have organised bike marking sessions. If you see one advertised please come along.

The other advice concerns your home if you are going away.

My Crime Risk Adviser has worked with local travel agents and has made available a leaflet outlining good advice.

This includes things like cancelling milk and newspaper deliveries, making your home look like someone is living in it by using automatic timer switches to turn lights on when it goes dark and double-checking that all windows and doors are locked.

This may seem like common sense advice but by following these tips, your house and belongings will be safer and you can relax and enjoy your holiday.

Let your neighbours or trusted friends know your holiday arrangements and let them help by moving post and free newspapers away from the door as these can be tell-tale signs that let a burglar know who’s home and who’s away.

You could ask them to park their car on your drive. You can repay the favour by doing the same for them when they go away.

Further copies of the leaflet are available from police stations across Wyre Forest.

INSPECTOR PAUL CROWLEY