POLICE across Cambridgeshire and the Fens are reminding residents and motorists to take security precautions as the clocks go back and the evenings draw in.

A few simple steps can help keep homes and vehicles, and the possessions they contain, more secure.

Community safety officer Ruth Watson said: “Burglary and vehicle crime are mostly opportunist offences so people can remove temptation by keeping possessions out of sight.

“Security alarms and lights can be a worthwhile investment to deter offenders and could save you a lot of time and inconvenience in the long run.”

Police are offering the following advice:

For the home:

* Invest in a security light and alarm to deter burglars. Burglar alarms are shown to be the number one deterrent.

* Use a timer switch for lights when you are not in, so your home looks occupied.

* Make sure you lock your front and back doors and secure all windows, including upstairs ones, before leaving.

* Beware bogus callers. If somebody knocks at your door, be wary. Most utility companies do not cold call. Ask to see photo ID and call the company, preferably on a land line using an official listing in the telephone directory for confirmation. Genuine callers do not mind calling back another time or for you to make an arranged appointment with the company.

For the car:

* Don’t leave any possessions in your car - even if they are not valuable, they could still tempt a thief to break in.

* Remove any sat nav device and holder, making sure to wipe off any sucker marks from the windscreen. Don’t assume removing the sat nav is enough. If a thief sees marks they may take a chance that it’s hidden in the glove box or under the seat and break in anyway.

* Park in well-lit areas where possible and if you have a garage, make sure you use it and lock it.

* Some thieves will break into a house to get hold of the keys to your car. If you go on holiday, either take your car keys with you or leave them with a friend or relative you trust. When you are at home, keep your car keys away from the letterbox or window.

For more information about security contact the community safety unit for your area on 0345 456 456 4.