BURGLARY in Norfolk has dropped significantly in the past four years from 1885 burglaries at residential properties in 2005 to 1593 in 2008. The figure has been revealed as Norfolk Police support the launch of a government campaign where the Home Office has issued an advice pack called Secure Your Home.

BURGLARY in Norfolk has dropped significantly in the past four years from 1885 burglaries at residential properties in 2005 to 1593 in 2008.

The figure has been revealed as Norfolk Police support the launch of a government campaign where the Home Office has issued an advice pack called Secure Your Home.

Containing advice and information, the book also includes DIY discount vouchers for members of the public who are worried about burglary.

The campaign comes a week into British Summer Time and householders across Norfolk are urged not to make it easy for potential burglars. Officers are advising people to pay extra attention to home and vehicle security with the onset of the warm weather - often seen as an opportunist time for thieves.

Chief Superintendent Julian Blazeby, Head of Protective Services and Norfolk's most senior detective said:

“Most burglaries are carried out by opportunist thieves. The summer months can bring with them thieves on the look out for lapses in security - such as doors and windows left open or property left on display at beauty spot car parks. People are advised to be aware and make use of simple crime prevention methods which deprive thieves of the opportunity to steal.

“We will ensure victims of burglary have access to accurate advice at the earliest opportunity to reassure them and so they do not become repeat victims. We will also be issuing security advice to the neighbours of burglary victims.

“In two out of ten burglaries offenders do not even have to use force - they get in through an open door or window. Carry out a check of your home. Are there places where an offender could break in without being seen? Have you fitted strong locks on your doors and windows? Would an offender have to make a lot of noise by breaking glass?”

“There is the likelihood there could be a rise in acquisitive crime (street crime and vehicle crime) as a result of the recession. Whilst the Constabulary was not able to have foreseen the economic downturn, we had two choices - either 'tread water' until things improved or find alternative ways of thinking and operating.

He added: “We've re-focused on change in order to become a more efficient organisation that can deliver more policing services at a time when some other police services are contemplating cut-backs.

“We've invested heavily in supporting our 52 neighbourhood teams, not just by putting in more people, but by considering how we can best deliver services to the people of Norfolk. In straightened times, it is going to be even more important that we build on good relationships with the public - our neighbourhood teams are the essential building blocks to do just that.

“Norfolk is an extremely safe place to live and your chances of being burgled still remain extremely low but you should look at your home through a burglar's eyes. Don't become an easy target.”

Neighbourhood policing teams will be putting up the following posters in shop windows, community centres and shopping centres to remind the public to protect their property.