Police in Honiton issue advice to residents following a spate of burglaries.

RESIDENTS in Honiton are being urged to ensure their property is properly secured following a spate of burglaries in the town.

Police in Honiton have issued some safety advice and tips to ensure properties are secured especially with many people going on holiday.

It is important to close and lock windows and doors before going out as opportunistic burglars often chose premises with no obvious signs of security or where they will not be seen.

Police statistic show that properties without security measures in place are ten times more likely to be burgled than those with simple security measures such as window locks and quality door locks.

Items that are most commonly stolen are laptops, purses, money, mobile phones, jewellery, TV’s, ipods, electrical equipment, credit cards and car keys.

Many opportunist burglars enter the house by putting their hand inside a cat flap or letter box, taking the key out from the inside of the door and then letting themselves in.

It is important to fit strong locks to external doors and windows and do not leaves keys in the locks – keep them out of sight and in a safe place. Install a burglar alarm and mark and register your property with your postcode, house number or house name to make your property more traceable.

Install outdoor lighting or security lights and ensure your doors and frames are in good condition.

Householders can also fit a door chain and spy hole.

When on holiday or going out for the day or night a timer switch can be an extra security measure to create the impression that someone is at home. Ask a friend, neighbour or relative to keep an eye on your property while you are away and get them to collect post from the letterbox, put the dustbins out, and open and close curtains.

If you have a driveway, ask a friend or neighbour to park on your drive whilst you are away.