Residential burglaries in North Hertfordshire have risen from five to 14 compared with the same period last year, according to new figures released by Hertfordshire Constabulary.

The increase of nine burglaries represents a 180 per cent rise, with the number of reported incidents almost tripling.

The figures, covering October 2026 to date, show North Herts has experienced one of the largest increases in the county.

Only Hertsmere recorded a larger numerical rise, with burglaries increasing from four to 19.

Across Hertfordshire, 123 burglaries have been recorded compared with 70 during the equivalent period last year – an increase of approximately 76 per cent.

The warning comes ahead of the clocks going back on Sunday, October 25, when darker afternoons could create further opportunities for criminals.

Police say residential burglaries have historically increased during autumn and winter, with unlit properties potentially signalling to offenders that nobody is at home.

Detective Superintendent Ant Alcock, from Hertfordshire Constabulary's Local Policing Command, said: "Taking care of your home security is essential at any time of the year, but during the autumn and winter months burglars are especially active.

"Burglary rates have begun to rise in some areas and once the clocks go back this trend is likely to continue.

"Burglary is a priority for us, and we will always attend if your home is burgled to provide support and conduct a thorough investigation with forensic specialists."

He added that making homes appear occupied was one of the most effective ways of deterring burglars.

"Making sure your home appears occupied is the best way to deter burglars. This can easily be achieved by using a timer to switch on a light when it gets dark.

"Many home energy apps now offer a feature to automatically switch lights on at specific times."

Police have also identified a trend of burglars entering properties through upstairs windows, prompting a reminder to residents to secure windows on every floor.

How to protect your home

Hertfordshire Constabulary has issued a series of practical steps residents can take to reduce the risk of burglary:

• Lock doors and windows: Ensure all windows, including those upstairs, are locked. Double-lock PVCu doors by lifting the handle and turning the key.
• Make your home look occupied: Use timer switches, smart plugs or automated lighting to illuminate rooms during darker evenings.
• Consider security cameras: Doorbell cameras, internal cameras and monitored burglar alarms can provide additional protection.
• Secure your garden: Lock side gates, sheds and garages, and ensure fences are secure.
• Remove climbing aids: Put away ladders, garden furniture and bins that could help burglars reach upstairs windows.
• Keep valuables hidden: Store keys and valuable possessions away from windows and doors.
• Protect your vehicle: Lock vehicles and remove valuables, even when parked outside your home.
• Look out for neighbours: Be particularly mindful of vulnerable residents and report suspicious behaviour.

Police are encouraging residents to join Herts Connected, a free community messaging service providing local crime alerts, policing updates and crime prevention advice.

Residents can sign up at hertsconnected.co.uk⁠ and choose to receive messages from Hertfordshire Constabulary, Neighbourhood Watch, Action Fraud and the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Suspicious activity can be reported online through Hertfordshire Constabulary or by calling the non-emergency number 101.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police say even relatively simple measures, such as switching on lights before leaving home and ensuring upstairs windows are locked, can help prevent opportunistic burglaries as the evenings grow darker.

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