POLICE are warning residents to take steps to protect their homes - or risk returning home from holiday to an unwelcome surprise that burglars have dropped by.

Officers have issued the warning as school holidays get under way and forecast bad weather drives people abroad in search of sunshine.

They have joined forces with travel agencies and post offices to offer advice to holidaymakers on how to protect their homes if leaving the county.

Posters and postcards for the campaign carry the message "Sun, sea, sand and... empty house" and give advice on keeping your home safe.

Message Local Safer Neighbourhoods teams in communities across the county have been supplied with postcards to distribute in a bid to spread the message.

Posters have also been sent to travel agents and post offices across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight so that people will see the advice at the time of booking their holiday, applying for a passport or changing currency. It is part of the force's commitment to reducing the number of household burglaries.

The campaign is part of Safer Homes, the ongoing operation to combat burglaries. Hampshire crime prevention officers are also happy to offer specific advice on preventing break-ins at your property - just ring 0845 045 4545 or visit www.hampshire.police.uk and click on advice and information.