Burglars strike after opening key safes (From Gazette)

Burglars strike after opening key safes

5:20pm Tuesday 14th February 2012 in Colchester By James Cox

BURGLARS are raiding key safes at elderly residents’ homes, police have warned.

The combination-locked boxes give carers access to the properties of elderly or infirm people for chores and emergencies.

Crooks have taregted bungalows in Tiptree, leading to break-ins. Now police have launched an operation to ensure residents have the toughest type of safe that cannot be broken into.

Colin Stiff, Colchester Police’s crime reduction officer, said: “It has become a problem. The boxes are being ripped off and smashed open. I want to unify the model of safe people use. Some are very robust, but others are not so.”

In some cases, the box, often attached to the house or wall in back gardens, has been stolen – with the thief returning later.

Joyce Hooker, 92, discovered an intruder at her home in Tiptree, on February 2.

The burglar left the key from her safe in the back door lock as he fled with £150 and two necklaces. She urged people to leave Colchester Council’s helpline scheme, but charities say residents should not panic, emphasising how useful the safes are to carers and family members.

Rachel Fahie, chief officer of Age UK Colchester said: “I am dismayed this is happening.

“Key safes are very valuable to older people and those that support them. I would support the police’s advice.

“ I don’t want people being terrified in their own homes. That’s no way to live.”

Key safes can be bought independently, but are often fitted at elderly people’s homes through the council’s helpline scheme.

A council spokesman said the safes it installed were of a high standard, recommended by insurance companies.

She said: “Helpline provides a 24-hour monitoring and response service, where staff provide advice, reassurance and assistance, as necessary.

“It gives vulnerable and older people the means to summon help in the event of an emergency when they would not be able to reach a phone or open the door.

“Key safes are vital in assisting with this, as they give fast access to a property.”