Warning over sneak-in burglaries

One of the aims is to prevent sneak-in burglaries

As many as two out of three burglaries in one force's area happen because criminals sneak in through doors and windows, police say.

Northumbria Police said during last summer's heatwave, some area commands reported most burglaries happened after doors and windows were left unlocked.

It says although house burglary has fallen by 8% in 2003/04, more offences could be prevented.

It is part of the force's seasonal crackdown on crime.

Northumbria Police have been issuing crime prevention advice as part of their 'Turn up the heat...on crime' campaign.

People are being advised to lock doors and windows when they go out, avoid leaving valuables where they can be seen through windows, avoid leaving keys in doors, and fit alarms which show when outside doors are opening.

Northumbria Police has set up a website for residents to log serial numbers and descriptions of property and as part of the campaign, it is giving away a number of free UV marking pens and garden equipment tagging devices.