Hertfordshire Constabulary is reminding Hitchin residents to take extra care in securing their homes this autumn, as burglary figures show a seasonal rise across the county.

Police recorded a 25 per cent increase in burglary offences during August compared to the same month last year. Areas with the highest numbers included Dacorum (31 offences), St Albans (29), Hertsmere (17) and Welwyn Hatfield (14).

Officers say the change in season often leads to more opportunities for burglars, as darker evenings arrive earlier and many homes are left empty during the school and work day.

Detective Chief Inspector Luke Whinnett, from Hertfordshire Constabulary's Local Policing Command, said:

"Burglaries increased during August and we often see an increase once summer is over and homes are left empty during the day. If your home is left unoccupied burglars will look for tell-tale signs, like unopened letters at the front door, bins not put away or drawn curtains during the day. Making it appear that your home is occupied can be the most effective deterrent against burglary. Investing in a doorbell camera is also a great deterrent."

Top tips to keep your Hitchin home safe

Police are urging residents to take simple steps to make their homes look occupied and less attractive to would-be criminals, including:

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• Always close and lock windows, doors and outbuildings.
• Use timer switches on lights (and even radios) so it looks like someone is home in the evenings.
• Install a doorbell camera or Wi-Fi cameras for extra security.
• Ask neighbours to move your bins back after collection if you're away.
• Get a neighbour or friend to park on your driveway.
• Cancel regular deliveries such as milk or newspapers.
• Keep valuables such as laptops and phones out of sight.
• Sign up for Herts Connected at hertsconnected.co.uk to receive free local police updates.

How to report

For further advice visit herts.police.uk/protectyourhome.

If you have information about a crime, you can:

• Report online at herts.police.uk/report
• Use the police online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact
• Call the non-emergency number 101

You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.