POLICE have launched an operation to crack down on burglary.

Thames Valley Police officers will be patrolling neighbourhoods and burglary hot-spot areas in a bid to clamp down on winter break-ins.

They will also target homes at risk of burglary and leave a postcard full of tips on how residents could improve their home security.

Ch Insp Colin Seaton, said: “Most burglars are opportunist thieves and people who work full time, and usually leave and return from work in the dark, are more likely to fall victim of opportunist burglars.

“If no lights are on in your home, curtains are not drawn, and no car is in the drive, it’s an obvious sign to an opportunist burglar that no-one is in.

“We will also have officers travelling on the buses and trains, handing out crime reduction leaflets to the commuters.

“They will be speaking to people who possibly will have left their house unoccupied all day and will often not be back until after dark.”

The Here’s A Bright Idea campaign is being run in conjunction with TVP’s community safety partners, which includes Wycombe District Council.

Cllr John Gibbs, Wycombe District Council Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “Burglary is an opportunistic crime – so don’t give a burglar the opportunity to make you a target.

“In the run up to Christmas it’s even more important to take some simple steps like using a light timer to help protect your home and your possessions.

“The burglary rates in the Wycombe district are dropping – taking some simple steps means we keep them down.”

Police have issued the following simple and cost effective security advice:

• Visit a local retailer to pick up a 24 hour segment timer for under £5. The timer can be used with a lamp, radio or TV to give the impression that someone’s home. Remember to use an energy efficient light bulb.

• Register your valuables on www.immobilise.com – it’s free and takes just a few minutes and if your valuables are stolen, will allow you to tell the police, your insurer, and the second-hand trade to assist in recovering your property and catch the thief.

• Keep valuables out of sight.

• Lock your doors and windows, if you have a UPVC door make sure you have double locked it.