Published Wednesday 8 June 2016 at 13:51
POLICE in East Lancashire are urging residents to be vigilant and check their home security during the month of Ramadan.
At this time of year, members of the Muslim community make regular visits to mosques and to ensure their valuables remain safe at home people are being urged to lock their doors and windows and use burglar alarms where possible.
Inspector Abid Khan from Blackburn with Darwen police said: “As we approach the month of Ramadan, we want to ensure people and their property remains safe.
“Historically we have seen an increase in house burglaries during the month of Ramadhan particularly during summer months when families get together to break their fast and leave their own home empty. We will be carrying out highly visible patrols across the town, but residents should make sure they keep their home locked and secure, even when they are at home.
“People should try to leave a light on or use a timer switch when they leave the house to give the impression there is someone at home.
“Cars parked outside religious buildings during prayer times should be locked with all valuables – including purses, handbags, loose change and sat navs – kept out of view.
“We are also asking people to be considerate when parking their cars. Parking inconsiderately can cause a danger to other road users particularly pedestrians and children so please comply with parking restrictions.
“We will continue to work with mosques to raise awareness of crime prevention during Ramadan and I would encourage anyone with concerns or information about crime to contact us.”
Councillor Yusuf Jan–Virmani, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Executive Member for Neighboourhoods, Housing and Customer Service, added: “Prayers will be very late at night and very early in the morning.
“We are asking everyone to be considerate of their neighbours and particularly to parents to ensure they know where their children are. The safety of children and the consideration of neighbours is paramount.”
The emergency services and the Council have put together an advice pack covering everything from Fire safety, crime prevention, safer charity giving, road safety and health advice.
More Ramadhan information can be found at: http://bit.ly/ramadhan-advice
Anyone who sees anything suspicious or who has any information can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.