Burglars take advantage of insecure homes in hot weather

Of these, 30 took place at homes where burglars were able to enter through insecure doors and windows.

Det Chief Insp Andy Nolan said: “The easiest way to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of burglary is to make sure you check all the doors, patio windows and downstairs doors are locked before you go to bed.

“If you are in the house and you move to another room, close the window in the empty room. If you are going out, go round and check that all the doors and windows and closed and locked before you go. It only takes a couple of minutes.

“People believe their house is their castle and that they will never be burgled. But if you leave a door or a window unlocked, it is an open invitation for a burglar to come in.”

He added: “Even leaving a small window open can give a burglar the chance to get in. It is surprising how tiny a space some people can squeeze through, or they may be able to lean through and use a device to reach in to open a larger window.”

Det Chief Insp Nolan also warned against leaving mobile phones or handbags, car keys, laptops and other valuable items within reach of an open window as thieves may lean in and take them.

To download free tracking software for electronic equipment, visit preyproject.com and to register valuable items to enable them to be traced, visit www.immobilise.com