THE POLICING team making sure Dursley remains a safe place to live and work is urging residents to keep vigilant with their shed and garage security.

Homeowners are being given the chance to receive crime prevention surveys on dwellings or outbuildings by the Dursley Neighbourhood Policing Team.

PCSO Joshua Griffiths, who covers the Dursley area alongside PC Mark Wilson and PCSO Oliver Clark, said: “Gloucestershire is a safe place to live but as your local police we are committed to reducing crime and want to work with you to raise awareness.

“To do this we are looking to raise awareness of shed and garage security and now is a good time to check your property and reduce your chances of becoming a victim.”

Useful tips on how to protect your shed and outbuildings include using a good padlock and secure shed hinges with one-way clutch head screws.

The police also suggest using a curtain or mesh grille over the window sop not to advertise your property.

Other advice includes not leaving garden tools around the garden as they can be used to break in.

You can also install a shed alarm and postcode your property or bike, making it easier to find if stolen.

PCSO Griffiths added: “We would ask that you are vigilant and if you witness any suspicious or criminal activity, you should call 999 if a crime is in progress or 101 if you are reporting information.

“It is useful to provide description of the offenders and vehicle registration numbers.”

For more information, email joshua.griffiths@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk