OLDER people have been warned to take extra steps against burglars this spring.

Figures from Age Concern show that although Lancashire has four times fewer burglaries than Greater Manchester, older people are more likely to become victims in the county.

Households with no home security measures are about 10 times more likely to be burgled than those with simple security measures like window locks, and last year more than 320,000 people in the UK made a total of £356 million in insurance claims after burglaries.

The charity has worked with Lancashire police to produce a five-point plan to help protect homes against burglary this spring:

  • Never leave a spare key under the door mat or a plant pot as these are the first places a burglar will look
  • Remember to double lock all windows and doors when you leave the house
  • Cancel the delivery of milk and newspapers if you are away for a long period of time
  • Set your burglar alarm. If you do not have an alarm, consider investing a few pounds in a dummy alarm box.
  • Enlist the help of a neighbour, friend or relative to keep a regu-lar eye on your property and keep the front door clear of deliveries.

Elaine Jennings, of Age Concern Blackburn, said: “We know that as the days get longer and the weather becomes milder, older people are able to get out and about more.

"It is so important that extra precautions are taken.

“As well as ensuring your home is adequately protected against a burgary, by taking out a home insura-nce policy you will be financially protected.”