Warning after house thefts in East Kilbride area

Nov 25 2009 by Louise Reilly, East Kilbride News

POLICE this week warned householders throughout the East Kilbride and Strathaven areas not to let thieves spoil their Christmas after a number of house break-ins in the area.

Among the latest incidents being investigated by police officers are:

On November 20, at about 4.55am, thieves attempted to break into a house in Dunbar Hill, West Mains. They tried to gain entry by the rear patio doors, but were disturbed and fled empty handed, however, they caused damage to the doors.

A house in Cairnryan, Stewartfield, was targeted by thieves between 4.45pm on the November 21 and 12.30am on the 22nd. The thieves smashed the patio doors, but fled empty handed.

Sergeant Claire Campbell, of the town’s community safety team, has warned residents to be on their guard against the thieves.

“Following a recent spate of housebreakings and attempts on houses and garden sheds, we are keen to reinforce the message of home security again,” she said.

“'At this time of year, all of us are looking forward to celebrating the festive season, and with the task of buying lots of presents and planning an enjoyable Christmas at the top of our priorities, sometimes thinking about securing the home slips the mind.

“The days are becoming darker earlier, and with no one at home to put on lights, it can be more apparent to would be thieves that no one is at home.

'Householders should remember to lock and secure all their doors, including patio doors, keep all valuables out of sight and try to use timer switches for their lights.

“People can also buy these timer switches from most DIY stores throughout the area and they are an excellent deterrent for thieves.”