Police have blamed an increasing number of burglaries in parts of Northampton on victims leaving doors and windows open.
Detectives say they have seen a burglary spike in the north and east areas of the town, mainly because opportunistic and predatory burglars have targeted insecure houses.
Three homes were burgled in Boughton, Thorplands and Lumbertubs in the last week where the offender broke in through an open window or unlocked door.
Northampton North East Inspector, Colin Irving, said: “The warmer weather seems to encourage people to leave their properties insecure, which often results in an increase in burglaries at this time of the year.
“We ask people to make sure keys and valuable items are not left on display or in easy reach of cat flaps, letter boxes and downstairs doors and windows, and that they lock windows and doors even when leaving their home unattended for a short time.
“By taking some simple precautions, people can make life harder for thieves and reduce the risk of being a victim of crime.”
For crime prevention advice and information visit www.northants.police.uk/crimeprevention or call 101 and ask to speak to a local crime prevention officer.