Police are urging Congleton residents to review their home security as winter approaches and the days get shorter.

Congleton Local Policing Unit have shared some tips to help reduce the risk of burglary and make life difficult for thieves.

Ensuring doors and windows are locked, even when you are at home, and remembering to remove keys from locks can thwart would-be robbers at the first hurdle.

You can also use timer switches on lights when you're away, making your home appear occupied, while secure outdoor lighting and CCTV can act as effective deterrents.

Sergeant Vicky Welch from Congleton Local Policing Unit, said: "I'd urge you to stay vigilant and utilise our advice and guidance on protecting your home from thieves.

"It's vital you report any suspicious activity you see in your neighbourhood so we can check it out.

"By working together and looking out for one another, we can help reduce opportunities for criminals and keep our communities safe. If you see anything suspicious, report it to Cheshire Police online or by calling 101.

"In an emergency, always dial 999."

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Tips to help reduce the risk of burglary

• Windows and Doors – make sure all windows and doors are not only shut at night or when you're not at home but also locked. Don't leave valuable items or car keys on display. They just may well catch the attention of someone passing by. Fit mortice locks or bolts to all outside doors and gates and locks to all downstairs or easily accessible windows. Lock them even when you're at home – opportunist thieves will often just try doors in the hope they have been left open. Consider anti-snap lock barrels as we are seeing an increase in lock attack type offences.
• Alarms – Have an approved alarm system installed – ask your insurance company for advice. Always remember to activate it when you go out. Consider a CCTV system or video doorbell.
• Security Lights Internal and External – Fit an approved, motion sensor security light – this not only serves as a safety device for you but also as a deterrent to any potential burglars approaching the house. When you're not at home use automatic timer switches to turn on your lights when it goes dark to make it look like someone is in.
• Front Door and Letterbox – Consider chains, especially if you have no front door viewer. Use letterbox restrictors and don't leave car keys in sight as thieves sometimes use hook and canes in order to steal car keys.
• Driveway – Gravel driveways are noisy when you walk on them are a deterrent to thieves thinking of breaking into your house.
• Vehicles – make sure all windows, sunroofs and doors are locked when a vehicle is left unattended, even if just a few minutes. Remove valuables from vehicle completely.
• Wheelie Bins – Don't leave your recycling bins out as they can be used as a step to climb over a high wall or fence. Also think about your Christmas packaging, is this an advert for what new appliances your home has?
• Garden, Gates and Fences – Prevent intruders getting to the back and sides of your home by installing strong fencing or gates. Check for weak spots where a thief could get into your garden, for example, a low or sagging fence, or a back gate with a weak lock. A thorny hedge along the boundary can put thieves off. But make sure that passers-by can still see the front of your home so that a burglar can't work without being seen.
• Sheds – Put all your tools away so that they cannot be used to break into your house, and lock your garage and shed with security locks or padlocks. Consider anchoring heavy and expensive items such a bike and lawn mowers to the floor to make it difficult for them to be stolen.