This article is from page 26 of the 2009-09-22 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 26 JPG
PREVENTING crimes such as bur- glary and theft across the county will be one of the priorities for Garda Community Safety Week, which takes place throughout this week.
The theme of the week’s nation- wide campaign is ‘Older Adults in the Community’. The purpose of the theme is to focus on the positive con- tributions of older adults in the com- munity, particularly through their involvement in various community partnerships and crime prevention initiatives, operated in partnership ede mee:NuOreNB
“It is recognised that older people can be targeted. However, the impact can be reduced if crime prevention advice is actioned,’ said the crime prevention officer in Clare, Sergeant Joe Downey.
“Every effort should be made by all to take all necessary precautions to secure their property and protect themselves from any form of attack. The main focus of this week is on burglary, theft from cars and theft from shops,” said Sgt Downey.
He pointed to advice in helping to prevent burglaries, thefts from cars and thefts from shops. These in- clude fitting quality security locks, installing intruder alarms and mark- ing valuable property so that it can be positively identified if stolen and later located.
“Form Neighbourhood Watch, Community Alert or Business Watch
eroups for your area. Be a good neighbour and report any suspicious behaviour to the gardai,’ advised Sgt Dre atlas
A number of specific points should be remembered in an effort to prevent thefts from cars, he said. These in- clude locking all doors and windows, fitting an immobiliser or alarm and avoiding parking in isolated places.
Thefts from shops can also be pre- vented, by taking various measures. “Making it difficult for customers or professional thieves to take goods can greatly reduce the incidents of theft,” said Sgt Downey.
“Installing CCTV systems will
help to deter thieves. The cameras should be highly visible, with warn- ing signs on display. A camera should be placed to record all who enter the shop. Access to the recorder should be strictly controlled.
‘“High-value goods should be in di- rect sight of the counter staff, while staff should always be encouraged to be observant.”
Garda Community Safety Week runs through until next Sunday, Sep- tember 27.