ONE step beyond -- what has this got to do with security and crime prevention, you might ask.

The answer is we are encouraging people to assess the security of their own homes and then take the level "one step beyond". The general perception is that all security improvements are costly. This is not always the case. Many crime prevention measures can be introduced at a low cost or in some cases without any expense at all. The crime prevention message for this week is in relation to sheds and garages. Although you wouldn't know it, Spring is just around the corner, and it seems that the thieves have started early when it comes to power tools and garden equipment. Due to the material used in the construction of sheds, it is sometimes difficult to totally secure them. However, below are measures you could take to make life more difficult for the would-be thief.

If they have to make a noise or take time to break in to your shed, it could encourage them to look for an easier target:

1. If your shed door has been fitted using screws on the hinges and hasp/staple, replace them with nuts and bolts.

2. Try to ensure that the locking devices are fixed to areas that are reinforced with either thicker wooden slats or metal boxing.

3. Ensure the roof of you shed is securely fixed to the frame.

4. If you have a window in the shed reinforce the glazing by fitting a fine wire mesh grill internally.

5. Chain any large items such as lawn mowers etc. to wooden stansions.

6. If you have to store power tools in the shed or garage try to provide a lockable drawer/cabinet which should be bolted to a wall or stansion.

7. If your garage is fitted with an up and over door, consider installing floor mounted locking devices to prevent the door being forced upwards.

8. Never leave your shed/garage insecure with gardening tools easily available. These could be used to force entry in to your home.

9. You can purchase a battery operated shed/garage alarm from Victim Support in Wigan, telephone 01942 322033 for £9. In the middle of the night, in the dark, would a thief hang about to check whether the alarm is battery operated or a full system?

10. The marking of your property is extremely important to give the police a chance to return items should they be stolen. Ultra violet marker pens and diamond tipped scribbers can be used. Mark your postcode and house number on all items that would be attractive to the thief.

THE main problem in the Leigh police area continue to be burglary. Last week Atherton was targeted by people entering by insecure front and rear doors.

Officers posted crime prevention advice through letterboxes. This seems to have done the trick, with the number of burglaries in the Atherton area this week being substantially reduced. The Golborne area seems to be the worst area this week, and again a favourite method of entering is simply going through an unlocked door. Some of the Golborne burglaries have occurred around 7am -- don't think burglaries only happen when you are asleep or out. An man was arrested last week allegedly committing a burglary in the Golborne area which will hopefully reduce last week's trend.

We are doing plenty to combat burglaries. For example, a plain clothes operation has just finished which targeted a number of people suspected of being involved in burglary. Twenty three people were arrested during the operation, codename Chance.

Most of these have been charged with criminal offences including burglary. One person arrested was charged with five burglaries and admitted a further 28 offences.