POLICE have warned residents about the dangers of leaving doors and windows open in warmer weather.The number of household burglaries usually starts to rise as the weather improves and yesterday crime reduction officer, Trisha Staerck, warned that this year has proved no exception.

By Roddy Ashworth

POLICE have warned residents about the dangers of leaving doors and windows open in warmer weather.

The number of household burglaries usually starts to rise as the weather improves and yesterday crime reduction officer, Trisha Staerck, warned that this year has proved no exception.

In recent cases burglars have been able to enter homes easily when doors or windows have been left open in the Chelmsford area.

Overnight on April 14 burglars entered a home in Beeches Road via an unlocked front door and stole £1,000 worth of goods.

Earlier this month a property in Sawkins Avenue was also targeted by burglars who got in through an insecure window and cash was taken from a bedroom.

Last Tuesday afternoon, intruders made their way into a home in Vicarage Lane, Great Baddow ,via an insecure door and stole keys, alcohol and a handbag.

Ms Staerck said that homeowners should remember to close and securely lock their windows and doors when they go to bed at night, particularly those on the ground floor.

Strong locks should be fitted to windows and doors and additional locks should be used with sliding doors.

She also reminded householders to remove keys from locks and to remember to arm burglar alarms.

Ms Staerck said: “Summer-time can make life easier for the burglars. The temperature is rising and many of us tend to leave a window or two open to allow fresh air to circulate whilst we are out and about.

“An open window, even a fan light, can provide access to an intruder who might be able to reach through it and unlock another entry point. It only takes a burglar a few seconds to make the most of an opportunity.

“A house left insecure is like putting down a welcome mat for a burglar.

“By following these simple crime prevention rules rigidly, people can protect themselves from losses and the accompanying inconvenience and distress.”

People wanting further crime prevention advice and information in the Chelmsford area can contact Ms Staerck on 01245 212548.