A CRACKDOWN on burglaries has been launched in Burnley and Padiham after more than 150 were recorded in the first three months of the year.

Officers are asking residents to help them lower the rate of break-ins by locking doors and keeping valuables out of site.

It comes as one in four of the burglaries reported to Lancashire Police in Burnley and Padiham between January 1 and March 26 was due to homes being left insecure.

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Det Insp Simon Upton, from East CID, said: “We need residents to work with us to help us tackle burglary. You face an increased risk of becoming a victim if your property is left insecure – an open window or door is an open opportunity for thieves.”

Since the beginning of the year, there have been over 150 burglaries in the Burnley and Padiham areas of East Division. Twenty-eight of those have seen cars stolen after burglars found keys inside people’s homes.

As part of the police’s reassurance operation, officers have been joined by colleagues from mounted branch, as well as Lancashire Fire and Rescue and Burnley Council to offer advice on how people can keep their homes and property safe.

Residents have also been offered the opportunity to get their valuable items marked so that they can be traced back to their owner if stolen.

Other crime prevention tips include:

• Keeping front and back doors locked and windows closed

• If windows are open, keeping them on the latch so that they cannot be opened further from outside

• Fitting a door chain and using it whenever you answer the door to an unexpected caller.

• Keeping side gates locked.

• Using a strong lock on sheds, garages and other outbuildings.

• Considering fitting outdoor security lighting.

• Keeping an eye on neighbouring properties and if you see anything suspicious contact police.

Det Insp Upton said: “I also urge people to consider hiding and securing vehicle keys to help prevent cars being stolen or premises being targeted for cars.”

More than 40 people have been charged in relation to burglaries in East Division so far this year and 20 stolen cars have also been recovered by police in the same time period.

Anyone with information or concerns can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.