Police warn of burglary rise as clocks go back

Traditionally the number of break-ins go up by as much as half when it gets dark earlier.

Head of Community Safety for the police, Chief 
Inspector Neill Waring, said: “Simple crime prevention advice really can make all the difference.

“Thieves are essentially lazy and if they have to make a lot of noise, spend a lot of time, or risk being seen, they are unlikely to bother.

“Taking a few precautions now and buying a few simple security devices to make your home secure is a small price to pay for peace of mind.”

Police advise residents to leave lights or the radio on so it looks and sounds like someone is at home, lock all windows in the house and to fit locks to the top and bottom of patio doors.

They also recommend visible burglar alarms and to not hide keys under doormats or flowerpots as these are the first places burglars would look.

You can download a comprehensive guide to protecting your home and property from the Bedfordshire Police website atwww.bedfordshire.police.uk