All of the existing NHW schemes have now been registered and members have received their Welcome Packs. Fred has also negotiated discounts with some companies connected with security issues.

The Welcome Packs contain leaflets on security topics, a window sticker, a 'Useful Numbers' card, and a free UV marking pen. (The pens offer extra peace of mind because if your stolen property is marked with your postcode and house number, the police will know where to return it if they are recovered.)

With all NHW members having a pen, eventually most of the Parish should have their property marked, making it
very difficult for thieves.

There is still a way to go to get the entire Parish signed up to NHW. If you have a little spare time and wish to help your street feel more secure (as well as create aneighbourly atmosphere), why not be a co-ordinator? NHW is free of charge. The only cost is, if you wish toadvertise to would-be thieves that you are in a scheme by displaying a noticeable lamp-post sign. These cost just £1-£2 per house - a real bargain!!

Discounts Members can now benefit from discounts from local tradesmen:
Electronic Security Innovations - 20% discount off intruder alarms, fire alarms, CCTV, telephones, etc.

Supreme Windows & Doors - 10-15% discount off UPVC windows and doors, boarding-up, and locksmith service and

Martin Leonard Electrical Contractors - 10-15% discount off all electrical work (wiring, security
lighting etc.).

Just ask your Scheme Co-ordinator for your Scheme number, and quote it to the contractor.
Also look regularly at your Neighbourhood Watch website for up-to-date news: L.F.E. Neighbourhood Watch

Rogue Trader Alert Leicestershire Trading Standards warn people to be on their guard for rogue traders who are
using Home Information Packs (HIPs) as a ploy to enter homes. They sell unnecessary repairs, and charge high
prices for unnecessary work, particularly damp-proofing.

David Bull, from Trading Standards, says "These men rely on people not knowing how much a job should cost, so
they over charge. Don't agree to have any work done by a door-to-door caller without getting a second quote from
local, reputable traders". For more information contact Consumer Direct on 0845 404 0506.

Smoke Alarms - "Push the Button, Not your Luck!" We're backing the government campaign to remind you to test smoke alarms and smoke-alarm batteries. There's no point in having one if it doesn't work!

In 2002, fire-fighters in England and Wales attended over 5,000 accidental house fires where alarms were fitted, but failed to work. Find out more about the campaign on the DCLG's website at www.communities.gov.uk/fire/firesafety.

Follow our simple tips for buying and fitting a smoke alarm:
Buy one that complies with the British, or equivalent international Standard.
Follow the manufacturers' instructions to fit it. Fit the alarm between the living areas and the bedrooms.
Ideally, have one in every room (except kitchen and bathroom).
Make sure you can hear it throughout your home.
Test your smoke alarm each week.
Change the battery every year or when you need to, such as when the low-battery warning sounds (an intermittent bleep). At the same time, use your vacuum cleaner to get rid of any dust inside it.

Free Home Fire Safety Checks We're offering free home fire-safety checks and free smoke alarms to those people
who need them. Contact Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service on 0116 287 2241

Smoke Alarms for the Deaf You can buy smoke alarms with a vibrating pad or a flashing light if you have a hearing difficulty. More information from the Royal National Institute for the Deaf on 0207 296 8000.

If I can help in anyway please contact me, Fred Hunter, Neighbourhood Community Development
Officer Tel: 0776 504 4457 or e-mail lfenhw@googlemail.com

Visit the Leicester Forest East Parish web site for additional information