Tonbridge Bean

As summer gets underway and holiday season approaches, police are reminding Tonbridge residents to take extra precautions to secure their homes — especially if you’re planning a trip away. The warning comes after three homes in nearby Whetsted Road were targeted by burglars in a single evening.

According to a statement from Kent Police, the burglaries occurred just before 9pm on Tuesday 4 March. Suspects forced entry through doors or windows, carried out messy searches, and left with stolen jewellery. Investigations are still ongoing, and officers are urging anyone with information or CCTV footage to come forward. If you think you may have captured anything relevant, contact the west Kent appeals line on 01622 604100 quoting reference 46/36870/25.

Unfortunately, burglaries like these often spike during holiday seasons — when homes are more likely to be unoccupied. But the good news is that there are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk.

7 Quick Ways to Protect Your Home Before You Travel

1. Lock everything – doors, windows, sheds and garages. Use double locks and ground anchors where possible.
2. Keep valuables out of sight – including laptops, handbags and car keys. Don’t leave them near doors or letterboxes.
3. Use timers – to switch on lights or a radio in the evening, so your home appears lived-in.
4. Ask a neighbour for help – get someone to check in, close curtains at night, and even park in your driveway.
5. Limit social media – don’t publicly post your travel plans online.
6. Cancel deliveries – milk or newspapers piling up is a clear sign nobody’s home.
7. Join a Neighbourhood Watch scheme – even just knowing your street is looking out for one another can be a powerful deterrent.

Kent Police continue to urge all residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour in their area. Staying alert and taking a few precautions can help protect your home while you enjoy a well-earned break.

For more tips on keeping your home secure — whether you’re away for the evening or off on a two-week break — visit the Kent Police crime prevention page.

So before you pack your bags this summer, take a few minutes to think about home security — and give yourself peace of mind while you’re away.

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