POLICE have issued an appeal to residents to improve their home security after a high number of walk-in burglaries this month. In August there were 63 walk-in burglaries in central division, which covers Huntingdonshire and Fenland. In 21 of these cases,

POLICE have issued an appeal to residents to improve their home security after a high number of walk-in burglaries this month.

In August there were 63 walk-in burglaries in central division, which covers Huntingdonshire and Fenland. In 21 of these cases, offenders gained entry to a property through an unsecured window or door. Most of the break-ins have taken place during the day and have seen thieves steal light-portable goods including cash, handbags and laptops.

Chief Inspector Russell Waterston said: "These opportunist thieves are looking to get in and out as quickly as possible.

"They will walk in and steal whatever may be at hand - cash, handbags, mobile phones and laptops are among the most common items.

"It is often hours before residents notice that anything has been taken, by which time these offenders are usually long gone.

"We are currently investing a large amount of resources into tackling burglary across the division but we need the public to take steps to protect themselves.

"Homeowners are urged to check their home insurance policies to ensure their property meets the security standards required. Insurance companies often refuse to pay out if properties do not meet these standards or are left unsecured."

Homeowners are being urged to always keep doors and windows locked, even when inside the house, remove keys from window and door locks and never leave items such as keys, bags and money on show.

INFORMATION: Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0345 4564564 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.