WILTSHIRE Police have launched a burglary vigilance campaign aiming to remind residents about simple precautions they can take to protect their home at a time of year when properties are particularly vulnerable.

The simple steps include remembering to lock doors and windows, never leaving a spare key in a clichéd hiding place such as a plant pot or under the mat and keeping keys away from the letterbox to prevent would-be burglars fishing through the post box.

The advice goes on to recommend installing a burglar alarm, making sure you have up to date contents insurance, registering the serial number of electricals with immobilise.com and taking pictures of valuables, including details such as hallmarks on jewellery, as proof if the worst were to happen.

T/Detective superintendent Deb Smith, head of crime, said: “Burglary can have a devastating effect on how people feel in their own homes.

“During the summer months when the weather is nice, people can be more inclined to leave their property insecure, but this leaves them open to being targeted by burglars.

“Throughout the campaign we want to raise awareness of the simple precautions people can take to improve the security in and around their home, as well as the impact burglary can have on the victims.

“We urge all residents to follow our prevention messages and to work with us by reporting anything suspicious on 101.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson, said: “Preventing crime is one of the key priorities in my 2017-2021 Police and Crime Plan.

“Wiltshire continues to be a safe place to live, but it is important that all of us remain vigilant and take steps to prevent becoming a victim of crime.

“The Force has drawn up a comprehensive plan to tackle burglary and I welcome this summer campaign.

“As householders we can all play a big part in protecting our property and possessions with a few simple steps.”

If you have any information about offenders or see something suspicious, please call Wiltshire Police on 101, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111. In an emergency dial 999.