SOUTHAMPTON police are warning people not to make it easy for burglars to break into their homes this summer.

Following the recent spell of hot weather a rise in the number of burglaries was reported as a result of windows being left open and doors left unlocked.

Officers are issuing advice to residents not to let down their guard simply because they are enjoying the hot weather.

Crime prevention officer Laura Rich said: "While we're out in the garden, most of us try to keep our homes cool by leaving the windows and doors unlocked to take advantage of any breeze.

"What this does is give a thief the opportunity to steal things close to the open window or, worse still, enter the house unobserved."

The warning is also being extended to workplaces and offices, where doors could be left open to give access to changing areas and rest rooms.

"The same applies to stuffy offices doors are often propped ajar, again giving an open invitation for the walk-in thief, particularly if rooms are temporarily unoccupied, with jackets or handbags visible. The thieves are after cash and credit cards," added Laura.

When the city bathed in sunshine last June a third of all break-ins that month were down to insecure properties. In all, 75 burglaries were reported, of which 27 were due to doors and windows being left open.

Officers at the city's burglary investigation team want to ensure that opportunist burglars get into fewer homes this summer.

Laura said: "The summer always goes too quickly, and we want everybody to have a summer to remember for all the right reasons. We just ask that you be aware of what you are doing while enjoying the hot weather, follow the simple crime prevention advice, and don't let anyone spoil your fun."