Grange residents asked to report suspicious activity after burglaries

Police are calling on people in Grange to report suspicious activity after a series of burglaries in the area.

Over the past three days, four incidents have been reported where suspects have forced entry into homes, according to detectives. At this stage, it is unclear whether anything has been stolen.

Officers are investigating these reports under Operation Themis, Cumbria Police’s initiative that focuses on burglaries.

Detectives have reminded people to lock their windows and doors before leaving their homes. They have also advised using lights on timers or sensor lights and making sure any CCTV cameras or video doorbells are functioning correctly. Residents who are not already signed up to Connect Cumbria, a police system for registering CCTV, have also been encouraged to do so.

Police are urging anyone who has seen anything suspicious or has CCTV or doorbell footage to get in touch. You can contact them via 101 or report online.

How to minimise opportunities for burglars

Police have issued advice on ways to enhance home security:

Lock windows and doors whenever leaving the house, and secure keys away from reach

Avoid leaving keys visible, such as on a hall table, and hide vehicle keys

Ensure side gates and sheds are secured with good quality locks

Store cash and valuables safely or conceal them

Use good locks, chains, or install CCTV cameras for added protection

In the evening, shut curtains and turn lights on

Use timer devices to switch lights and radios on if away for extended periods

Set burglar alarms and secure side gates