A KEIGHLEY community group spokesman used her family’s experience of being burgled to reinforce her organisation’s household safety message.

Eyarun Nessa, community engagement co-ordinator for Keighley Bangladeshi Community Association, (BCA) had her Riddlesden home broken into some time between 1.30pm and 9pm on October 19. She said it was the first time something like this had happened to her.

“I’d like to use my experience to encourage others to put in place measures to safeguard themselves and their families,” she explained.

“I did have security measures to defer intruders at my home, but they found a loophole. They looked under mattresses for cash and even squeezed my costume jewellery while searching for real gold.

“Although the whole house was turned upside down, they found nothing of value as these are not items we keep at home.

“But they did take my passport, and the passports belonging to my husband, Mohammed Saiful Islam, and seven-year-old daughter, Aliza Islam. We’ve reported these online as stolen, and have informed Action Fraud.

“We’re checking surrounding CCTV for evidence and I’m in the process of having upgraded security measures fitted.”

Mrs Nessa featured the targeting of her family’s home in a BCA message, which warns local people to be particularly vigilant over the Halloween and Bonfire Night period.

“A leading insurance company has confirmed levels of both antisocial behaviour and burglary rise during this period,” she added.

“In previous years, there have been numerous incidents around this time in Keighley Central Ward – particularly in and around Lawkholme Lane, Knowle Park and the Belgrave Road area of Highfield.

“Last year, BCA joined West Yorkshire Police, Bradford Council and other community centres to combat crimes during this period. That proved effective and we’re replicating it this year.”

Among the recommendations included in BCA’s guide to prevent or limit the impact of burglary are: fitting anti-snap locks, installing CCTV and burglar alarms capable of sending notifications directly to the homeowner’s mobile phone, forming a Neighbourhood Watch group, installing external lighting, and marking valuables with a UV pen.

The advice suggests people make themselves aware of how to report a stolen passport online, and learn how their stolen personal data can be fraudulently used to apply for credit cards and loans.

Mrs Nessa said: “I’d urge people to remember the simple precaution of using lights and timer switches which can make the difference between their home being targeted by burglars or being left alone.

“They should avoid tagging their location on social media while away, as thieves can match their Tweets or Instagram pictures with their property – then break in, safe in the knowledge that no one is at home.

“People with garages should put away their car and bikes, and make sure their garage or any sheds have strong locks.

“And they should lock away ladders, bins, garden ornaments and any other bits and pieces which an opportunistic burglar might use to gain entry.” Mrs Nessa asked anyone with information about the October 19 burglary at her house to get in touch with police via the non-emergency 101 number.