Police warn Stortford homeowners about summer burglary spate

Hertfordshire police are urging Bishop's Stortford residents not to make their homes an easy target for burglars.

There is often an increase in break-ins during the summer holidays as a result of windows and doors being left open and garden gates unlocked.

Posting about a trip or checking in on Facebook can also tip thieves off that the house is empty, and can even give the precise location of your home.

Insp Nicola Dean, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s crime reduction unit, warned: “During the summer holidays, burglars target homes that are empty, looking for signs like unopened mail, uncollected bins and no lights on during the evening.

“You can use technology to help make it appear as though your home is occupied, using timer switches on lights and fitting cheap doorbell and external security cameras.”