POLICE are reminding residents in Stroud about the importance of home safety after a series of burglaries in the district.

A number of houses in Bussage and Chalford have been targeted and officers are reminding the public to be extra-vigilant through the winter months.

Inspector Andy Poole said: “Sometimes it is obvious that no-one is home, and advertising your property as vacant can be a great opportunity for a burglar.

"Some simple precautions can help prevent you from being a victim of crime.”

Those simple precautions can include: • Leaving a light on in the house or getting a timed socket for the light to come on • Net curtains to prevent easy viewing into your home.

• Adequate security lighting around the home.

• Strong and Secure Locks on doors and windows. Making sure you include gates leading to the rear of your property.

• Defensive Planting (thorns, bushes) can prevent casual intrusion.

• Mark all valuable property with either an Ultra-Violet pen or a forensic marking kit. Make sure you mark all valuable property in the house and the shed/outbuildings.

• Use a padlock on your shed. Some burglars take advantage of your shed being unlocked. Especially if you leave a lot of expensive garden equipment. Maybe consider a shed alarm.

For more crime prevention advice or to contact your local officer log on to www.gloucestershire.police.uk