Ladders, Lights and Legal Aid

LADDERS

Ladders and stepladders are potentially of great use to a thief. They can obviously be used to gain access to upstairs windows.

Do not therefore leave ladders lying around. They should either be locked away in a shed or garage or else tied securely to an immovable object. You could fit brackets to the wall of an outbuilding and hang up the longer ladders and secure them in position.

LIGHTS

It is a good idea to leave internal lights on when going out for the evening. However do not leave them on in the hallway. It is better to either leave them on in the living room or fit a security light that is on a time control and comes on at intermittent periods which will confuse any potential thief watching the property.

The control switch can often be plugged into any electrical appliance so that you can choose whether you want a table lamp , television or wall lights to come on and go off at specific times.

Outdoor security lights may also be considered particularly if you live in a large or isolated property. Rather than have security lights on all the time passive infra red lighting could be installed .

The lights come on when someone approaches and could certainly be a deterrent to a thief startled by the sudden appearance of light.The sensor can usually be adjusted to allow it to remain off if an animal approaches. Wiring for outdoor lighting should be carried out by a trained electrician.

The external lighting should be adjusted to make sure that it goes off every few minutes and is not positioned in such a way it shines into neighbours bedrooms.

A deterrent against street crime is the efficiency of street lighting. It is essential that any lights not working should be reported to London Borough of Sutton immediately.
Don't wait for someone else to do it Phone 020 8770 6060.

LEGAL AID

Many victims of crime can apply for legal aid if they wish to take action for damages against the perpetrator. You may also wish to claim damages through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board.

It is advisable to consult a solicitor when considering these options.

You may be eligible for legal aid depending on income. The Solicitor you contact or The Citizens Advice Bureau can advise on this matter