Ringmaster Messages

[Reference: GA-01/49]

This is a Community Message from Beaconsfield Neighbourhood Officer, PC Iain Torbet, on Friday, 28 January 2011.

Speed Enforcement in Beaconsfield

Between 16 January 2011 and 26 January 2011 there have been 39 Fixed Penalty Notices issued for speeding in the Beaconsfield area.

There has been 6 Fixed Penalty Notices issued for people driving whilst using their mobile phones and 6 issued for people not wearing their seatbelts.

This enforcement will continue to take place in the Beaconsfield area.

PC Iain Torbett

[Reference: GA-01/47]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Thursday, 27 January 2011.

Overnight of 23-24 January there was a burglary in Heath Road, Beaconsfield.

It is believed entry was gained by using an unknown instrument through the letterbox and car keys and a grey VW Golf were stolen. A handbag containing purse, various cards and other personal documents were also taken.

Please remind all watch members to double lock their doors (particularly uPVC doors)overnight or when going out. If the five point locking system is not engaged (by pulling up the handle and turning the key), the door is only held in one place, which makes it easy for potential criminals to pop open the door or use an implement through the letter box to pull the handle back down again.
URN 98 24-01-2011 refers

Between 2pm on Sat 22 Jan to 8.30am on Mon 24 Jan a property in Gregories Road (high numbers) which is currently undergoing extensive renovation work was broken into and a number of tools, bathroom fittings and copper were stolen.
URN 351 24-01.2011 refers

If you have any information or you see anything suspicious, please call the police on 0845 8 505 505 and state that you are responding to this Ringmaster message.

Alternatively, if you do not wish to give your details, you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Message ends

[Reference: GA 01/38]

This is a message from the Amersham Watch Office sent on behalf of the South Bucks Community Safety Partnership.

Please see the link below for Community Safety Information Newsletter (CSI) Issue 1 2011:

http://www.ionbucks.info/ionbucks/html/links?referer=neighbourhood

CSI will be produced monthly to keep you updated and informed of how South Bucks District Council is working together with partner organisations under the provision of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 to write, publish and implement its local community Safety Partnership Plan.

If you are unable to open the document, hard copies are available on request from the Community Safety Team. Contact: 01895 837200

--message ends--
 

[Reference: GA-01/29]

SOUTH BUCKS NEIGHBOURHOOD UPDATES

The Neighbourhood Monthly News Updates are now available on the Thames Valley Police website. Check out dates of meetings, view photos of Neighbourhood Police officers, recent press releases and crime statistics.

Did you know there is also a link on the Neighbourhood Page where you can contact your Neighbourhood Police officers about local issues.

Please click one of the links below to go to your neighbourhood page.

Beaconsfield
http://bit.ly/domysI

Burnham
http://bit.ly/dfrZ65

Denham
http://bit.ly/b8OVDo

The Farnhamsl
http://bit.ly/9pEtwY

Gerrards Cross/Hedgerley/Fulmer
http://bit.ly/bs3FIl

Iver & Richings Park
http://bit.ly/cMcQAA

Stoke Poges/ Wexham
http://bit.ly/9MOs6Z

Taplow and Dorney
http://bit.ly/cGTt9R

If you want to keep up to date with what is happening in your neighbourhood save the link in your favourites and check it out on a monthly basis.

Message ends

[Reference: GA-01/30]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Friday, 14 January 2011.

Yesterday 13 January, Police carried out a speed enforcement operation on the A355 in Beaconsfield (30mph area) which resulted in 10 fixed penalty notices being issued.

There have been several thefts from vehicles this week and once again some of the vehicles had been left insecure and valuables left inside. The incidents have occurred as follows:

London End - 13 Jan at approx 8.45pm - lap top, brief case, mobile phone and camera stolen
Redwood Place (a gated cul de sac) - between 4.30pm to 6pm on 12 Jan - 2 vehicles; sat nav, gloves and cash stolen.
Baring Road - overnight of 10-11 Jan - 2 vehicles; probably left insecure and laptop and sunglasses stolen.

Please be vigilant and if you see anything suspicious call the police straight away on 0845 8 505 505 or if it is a crime in progress dial 999.

Message ends

[Reference: GA-12/45]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Friday 24 December.

The Amersham Watch Office will be closed until Tuesday 4 January. During this time, no Community Messages will be sent.

Community Messages are only one way of keeping up to date with what is going on in your community and sharing information with other watch members. You can find out information via the local radio station Mix 96, by visiting our website www.thamesvalley.police.uk and viewing the 'news' section or visiting your neighbourhood home page, also via our website.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for participating in the flow of information with the Police and helping to make your communities safer places to live.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy, peaceful and crime free New Year.

Margaret Dale
Watch Advisor

[Reference: GA-12/40]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Tuesday 21 December.

In view of the heavy snow fall, the possibility of more to come, along with sub-zero temperatures, Thames Valley Police, with its partners in the Thames Valley Local Resilience Forum, is advising people to take steps to keep themselves safe.

Before setting out, drivers are being asked to check the road conditions and ask themselves whether their journey is absolutely necessary. If they feel they have to travel, they are asked to heed the following advice:

Prepare yourself for the journey: check road conditions, plan your journey before setting out and leave extra time for the journey if travel conditions are poor. Use major roads where possible.
Pack warm clothes and blankets, boots, food, drinks, a fully-charged mobile phone, a torch, jump leads, tow rope, first aid kit, warning triangle, de-icer and a shovel. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
Prepare your vehicle for your journey - make sure your vehicle is well maintained, that all lights are clean and bulbs are working, that it is clear of snow and ice (particularly the windscreen) and that your tyres are at the correct pressure and depth tread. Use antifreeze and screen wash and ensure the battery is reliable.
Drive safely, even where roads have been treated. Even if there is no snow, driving conditions are expected to be difficult, with black ice likely.
Keep your distance from the vehicle in front, avoid hard braking or acceleration and steer gently. Avoid wheel spins by using low revs and the highest gear possible. If you skid, ease off the accelerator, and try to avoid braking hard.
If you get stuck in the snow, an old rug or mat under a slipping wheel should provide traction to help get you out.
Drivers are urged not to abandon their vehicles, especially where they may obstruct emergency service vehicles and major roads or motorways. If they do, the vehicles may have to be removed and it will be the driver's responsibility to pay for the cost of recovering them.

To find out which roads are being treated, please refer to your local authority's website. However, drivers are urged to drive with care, even on those roads that have been treated.

View the Highways Agency website (opens new window) for up-to-date information on road conditions on England's motorways and trunk roads, or call 0300 123 5000.
Visit the Met Office website (opens new window) for information on weather conditions, or listen to local radio.
Residents are reminded to check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours who may be in need of assistance, whether it's by clearing a safe pathway or helping to keep them warm.

There is no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice from the pavement outside your home, as long as you clear it carefully. Use salt or sand, rather than water, which is likely to refreeze and turn to black ice. Don't use salt from salting bins - this will be needed to keep the roads clear. When you're shovelling snow, take care to put it where it won't block people's paths or drains. For more guidance on clearing paths yourself, go to the Directgov website (opens new window).

The public are reminded that emergency calls for ambulance, police and fire services should be made in genuine emergency situations only.

If you are feeling poorly, choose the right NHS service to help you get well. The NHS is giving the following advice:

If your GP surgery is closed, you can call the Out of Hours Service on 0845 345 8995 and get advice, or a doctor may call you.
If you do have to make journeys out, please make sure that you have appropriate clothing and footwear to help prevent unnecessary slips, trips or falls.
If you are unfortunate and do slip or trip, remember minor injuries units may be the best and fastest place to go for treatment.
For more information, visit the NHS Direct website (opens new window).

Message ends.

[Reference: GA 12/13]

This is a message from the Amersham Watch Office sent on behalf of the South Bucks Community Safety Partnership.

This is the final message in a series of 'what if' scenarios so that thieves are not given an early Christmas gift.

What if your purse or wallet was stolen?

At this time of year we are all busy and opportunists can take advantage of us when we are not as security conscious as we normally are. If your purse or wallet was stolen not only could you loose any cash inside but bank cards, photos, loyalty cards etc but how much time and effort it will take to report this not only to the police but to your bank and other organisations. There can also be a sentimental loss. To help prevent this try the following measures

Try not to carry too much cash around, debit cards are accepted in most places now. If you must write down your PIN don’t make it obvious and try to disguise it.

Attach your purse to a purse alarm or a ‘cats bell. This will help alert you should someone dip into your bag. For personal alarms see www.redlinesecurity.co.uk or www.personalalarms.com

Be aware of persons standing too close to you when out & about and hold your bag firmly, consider wearing an across the body handbag. Ensure it is securely closed and never leave it in a supermarket trolley when shopping.

Some banks have credit/debit card registry service so that you only have to make one phone call to report your cards lost or stolen. Program your banks telephone number into your mobile phone.
When out and about walk confidently and be aware of your surroundings, try not to use personal music devices or mobile phones.

For Further Crime Reduction information please see www.thamesvalley.police.uk or www.southbucks.gov.uk

Message ends

[Reference: GA-12/12]

This is a message from the Amersham Watch Office sent on behalf of the South Bucks Community Safety Partnership.

This is the third message in a series of 'what if' scenarios so that thieves are not given an early Christmas gift.

What if your laptop was stolen?
 

• The police learn about laptops stolen everyday not just from vehicles but from house burglaries, if you lost your laptop just think how much you will loose and it’s not just the value of the computer. If you have family photos stored, important documents, banking details, music and various personal information. Just think how much time and effort you will spend putting it all back in place. To help prevent this try the following measures.
• Ensure your laptop is property marked either with a UV pen available from the police or by using one of the many DNA forensic coding kits such as Selecta DNA or smartwater.
• Avoid using a laptop bag as this will make it obvious that you are carrying a laptop, try using something more common like padded bag or suitcase. When out and about be aware of your laptops whereabouts at all times.
• Never leave access codes or passwords in your carrying case. Encrypt your data if someone should get your laptop and gain access to your files, encryption can give you another layer of protection. With Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 you can choose to encrypt files and folders. Then, even if someone gains access to an important file, they can't decrypt it and see your information. Equally Apple Mac users should refer to Apple about the best ways to secure your data. Encryption basically means putting passwords on your files.
• Use a laptop security device, If storing your laptop in your car use a laptop safe in the boot, also consider a laptop cable when in use in the home or office
• There are also programs that will report the location of a stolen laptop. They work when the laptop connects to the Internet, and can report the laptop's exact physical location. One such tracing program is ‘Computrace’ Other computer security measures can be found at www.securebydesign.com

---Message ends---

[Reference: GA-12/28]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Thursday, 16 December 2010 sent on behalf of ACC Helen Ball

A national campaign has been launched this week to encourage the public to report suspicious activity to the anti terrorist hotline. The two-week campaign consists of a radio advert which is being broadcast across England and Wales.

The threat to the UK from terrorism remains real and serious. Public vigilance and awareness is crucial in helping to create a hostile environment for terrorists. The events over the weekend in Sweden, the East Midlands Airport incident, the raising of the Irish terrorism threat level, and continued media speculation highlight the need for us all to remain alert.

Members of the public are encouraged to call the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 if they see any activity or behaviour they think is suspicious. Historically this campaign also increases calls and reporting to police through a number of channels, be that through the PEC or directly to officers and staff on the street. If intelligence is reported to you then please submit it in the usual way through the ISR. Details of how to use the ISR can be found here: http://knowzone/cs-intel-chis-isr

Examples of suspicious activity to look out for are:

Storage - Lock-ups, garages and sheds can be used by terrorists to store equipment. Are you suspicious of anyone renting commercial property?

Chemicals - Do you know someone buying large or unusual quantities of chemicals for no obvious reason?

Funding - Cheque and credit card fraud are ways of generating cash. Have you seen any suspicious transactions?

Multiple Identities - Do you know someone with documents in different names for no obvious reason?

Security - Do you know of someone taking an interest in security, like CCTV cameras for no obvious reason?

Transport - If you work in commercial vehicle hire or sales, has a sale or rental made you suspicious?

If you notice suspicious bags, behaviour or vehicles which pose an imminent threat call 999 immediately

The South East Counter Terrorism Unit Intelligence team can be contacted via SECTUIntelligence@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk Outside of office hours for more urgent queries, SECTU can be contacted via the control room.

Message ends

[Reference: GA-12/20]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Thursday, 09 December 2010.

There have been several thefts from vehicles in the Beaconsfield area over the past few days.

Due to the cold weather, a number of people are leaving vehicles unlocked in case the keys don't work. Offenders are aware of this and walk around testing doors. Even loose change quickly adds up so make sure you do not leave any items in your vehicle, including key fobs or remote controls to garages and gates.

By leaving your vehicle insecure it can invalidate any insurance claims and also makes it easier to steal.

Please be vigilant and if you see or hear anything suspicious call the police straight away.

Message ends

[Reference: GA-12/10]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Thursday, 02 December 2010.

Sexual assault - Beaconsfield

Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses after a 12-year-old girl was inappropriately touched in Beaconsfield on Monday (29/11) afternoon.

At about 3.20pm, the girl was on her way home from school and was near the playground area in Malthouse Square when a man approached her from behind and touched her inappropriately=2E She kicked him and made off.

The man is white, of unknown age (the victim believes he was young), about 5ft7ins tall, of slim build and has no facial hear. He was wearing a black hooded top, with the hood pulled up and pockets at waist level on both sides. He was also wearing dark blue jeans, which were quite worn and had tears in the thigh area, and white Nike trainers which had the logo on the side in black. He wasn't wearing gloves and smelt strongly of deodorant.

Anyone who saw something suspicious at the time or who knows who committed the crime is asked to contact Det Con Ghulam Mourtaza at Burnham Police Station on 0845 8 505 505. If you do not want to speak to the police, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. They don't need to know your name, just what you know.

You can also give information to the police in person by visiting any police station. Find the opening times of your local police station via our website or by phoning 0845 8 505 505.

Message ends

[Reference: GA-12/02]

This is a message from the Amersham Watch Office sent on behalf of the South Bucks Community Safety Partnership.

This is the second message in a series of 'what if' scenarios so that thieves are not given an early Christmas gift.

What if…my car is stolen from the driveway?

Having your car stolen is a fraught and emotional time, but it is important to stay calm and follow the correct procedures so the matter can be dealt with as smoothly as possible. Car key burglary is a crime where an individual breaks into your home with the specific aim of removing your car keys and stealing your car. Perpetrators of this crime often work to order and will target specific vehicles, based on demand and value.

• Contact the local police force immediately and report the theft, try and give as much details as possible, you will need your registration number. You will receive a crime reference number from the police once they have visited you, keep this as you are likely to need it to notify your insurance company.

• If you have a tracking device fitted to the car, call the tracking company and activate it, and have them notify the police directly. They will usually do this rather than just passing the information to you.

• Call your insurance company to notify them of the theft, giving them as much information as you can. Check your policy to see if it includes a courtesy car for the time your car has been stolen, and how long you have use of the car.

How to prevent your car keys being stolen?

A lot of vehicle crime results from criminals seeing opportunities and taking them. If a criminal is targeting a certain vehicle they will also be targeting the owner, looking for easy ways to exploit their security and get to their keys. But you can easily outsmart the car thief by keeping your keys safe:

• Always keep your keys somewhere safe and out of sight
• Fit a high quality alarm to your vehicle
• Use additional security systems such an immobiliser
• Always take your keys with you when leaving the vehicle unattended. For example, when de-icing the car in the morning. Do not leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running. This is often occurs during the winter months.
• Always keep your keys safe and concealed in public places
• Make sure doors, windows, the boot and sunroof are secure whenever you leave your vehicle
• If you own more than one vehicle, park the lesser valued vehicle behind the more expensive one on the driveway, making it more difficult to remove
• Make sure all windows and doors are securely locked
• Install a high quality burglar alarm
• Install an exterior security lighting system

--message ends--

[Reference: GA-12/01]

This is a message from the Amersham Watch Office sent on behalf of the South Bucks Community Safety Partnership.

This is the first message in a series of 'what if...' scenarios as part our Christmas Crime Prevention Campaign to help prevent you giving thieves an early Christmas gift.

What if…my internet enabled phone gets stolen?

Having your phone stolen is a hassle. It's not just the handset you lose, it's the numbers, messages, photos and stored passwords too. Maybe even allowing access to your social networking sites, web pages and internet banking. Knowing how to protect your mobile and keep it safe will save you a lot of inconvenience and stress.

Register, Report, Reunite

• If your phone is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the police.

• You should also contact your network provider. When you get through, tell them your phone has been stolen. They'll be able to block both the handset and the SIM card so that they can't be used any more.

• You can register the details of your handset with The National Mobile Property Register. This will help the police to return your phone to you if it is recovered after being stolen. You should also register the details of your phone with your network provider.

Carrying your phone

• If you're not making a call, make sure that your phone is hidden away. Keep it in one of your front pockets or inside a bag. Don't attach it to your belt or around your neck. Thieves are opportunists, so don't make yourself an easy target by showing off the handset you’re carrying around.

• Lots of people take their phones out of their pockets when they're sitting down. If you're out with your friends, don't put your phone on a table as anyone walking by can easily run off with it.

Making a call

• If you're making a call on your mobile in a public area, make sure you always keep an eye on what's going on around you. Thieves go to great lengths to get their hands on the latest handsets, so keep your wits about you.

• You should also try to avoid using your mobile phone in public at night. If you do have to use your phone, try to find an area that's well-lit. Also avoid getting out your phone at train stations and bus stops as these are areas that thieves target.

Securing your handset

• It's always a good idea to write down the make, model and unique identification number (IMEI number) of your handset. This can be found behind the battery, or by dialling '*#06#' on your handset.

• Keep these details in a safe place and completely separate from your phone, as you'll need to give them to your service provider if your phone is lost or stolen.

• Whatever model of handset you have, your handset has in-built security features that you can use to protect it. If you don't know how to use them, take a look at the instruction manual. For example, you can set up a PIN number that you have to key in before you make a call. This stops anyone else using your phone and protects your personal details.

If the police do recover your stolen handset, it's a lot easier for them to reunite you with your phone if it is registered. They can match up the serial number to your name and address and get it back to you quickly.

--Message Ends--

[Reference: GA-11/51]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Tuesday, 30 November 2010.

With the onset of this cold weather, Police would like to remind everyone NOT to leave their car unlocked on the driveway with the engine running. It can be tempting to go back inside and wait till it warms up, but it only takes a second for an opportunist thief to strike.

They know we do it and they will be on the lookout.

Also be aware that insurance companies will not pay out if your car is stolen and the the keys had been left in the ignition.

Please be vigilant and if you see anyone suspicious call the police straight away on 0845 8 505 505 or if it is a crime in progress dial 999.

Message ends

[Reference: GA-11/45]

This is a Community Message from Amersham Watch Office on Monday, 29 November 2010, on behalf of your Neighbourhood Police Team.

'Have Your Say' meetings in December

On 16th December, Neighbourhood police officers will be at Sainsbury's Store on Maxwell Road from 6pm - 8pm.
If you have any issues orn concerns do come along and speak to one of the team. No appointment is nnecessary, just turn up & ' Have Your Say'! You can also contact them nvia the police non emergency number 0845 8 505 505 or email BeaconsfieldNnorthNHPT@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk. Alternatively, if you do not wish ton give your details, you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 n111.
-------------Message Ends---------------