SUMMER is here – and it is the time to look after your belongings.

Police in mid Essex are urging people to think about the security of their property and take sensible precautions during the hot weather.

Crime reduction adviser for Chelmsford, Trisha Staerck, said: “It’s important to keep cool during the hot weather, but I would urge residents to be sensible at the same time.

“Unfortunately, passing thieves or burglars can regard an open door or window as an opportunity for them to chance their luck, and attempt to steal your property.

“It’s also very easy to doze off for a few minutes in the hot weather, providing a thief with the opportunity they are looking for. So, please be sensible even when you’re at home.

“If you are leaving your home unoccupied while going to work, doing the shopping, or going on the school run, please check all your doors and windows to ensure they are closed and locked before going out.

“No one wants to come home to the disruption and heartache of a burglary.”

Ms Staerck also has some specific advice in response to a number of recent burglaries in the region, where thieves have gained or forced entry to homes from the back garden.

She said: “I would urge residents to make it as difficult as possible for criminals to gain access to the back of your property.

“Please ensure the locks and bolts to your garden doors are in good condition, and can do the important job of keeping unwanted visitors out.”

One easy way of improving your home security is to fit and use an alarm.

“I would ask residents to consider fitting burglar alarms, which can both deter burglars and help police to catch them.

“Some people don’t put their alarms on at night, but I would urge everyone to do so by zoning certain areas on the ground floor level.

“Burglars may try to gain entry to homes overnight, and they will then typically steal whatever they can find in the living room or kitchen such as televisions, computers, purses or wallets and car keys.

“Switching your alarm on overnight is a highly effective way of protecting your belongings from these criminals.”

If you live in Chelmsford and would like further information, contact Ms Staerck on 0300 3334444.