POLICE in Hampshire are advising residents on how to keep their sheds and garages safer after a rise in break-ins.

Officers have reported that in the Southampton North area, especially Bitterne Park, there has been an increase of reported break-ins.

However, different measure can reduce the likelihood of residents becoming victims.

These include fitting an alarm, marking property with a postcode, registering property, using strong padlocks and hinges, securing large items inside with padlocks, locking the shed or garage after use, not storing high value items, and keeping property and fencing in good condition.