A POLICE operation in Wisbech has seen burglaries drop by just over 40 per cent in the past three months.Operation Luton, which launched in July, saw extra police patrols, stop and searching in hotspot areas and regular visits to those suspected of being

A POLICE operation in Wisbech has seen burglaries drop by just over 40 per cent in the past three months.

Operation Luton, which launched in July, saw extra police patrols, stop and searching in hotspot areas and regular visits to those suspected of being responsible.

In July there were 17 burglaries in the town, falling to 13 in August and falling again to 10 in September.

Officers have been working with Fenland District Council and landlords to enhance security at houses of multiple occupation in the Wisbech area.

As part of the operation suspects have been sent letters explaining that burglary will not be tolerated in the town.

Residents are still urged to play their part by ensuring their homes are secure and reporting any suspicious activity.

Police are advising residents to:

* Always keep doors and windows closed and locked or in a ventilated but locked position, even when you are inside the house.

* Remove keys from window and door locks, but keep them in a familiar and safe place where all members of the family know where to find them in the event of an emergency.

* Never leave items such as keys, bags and money on show through a window, as these can prove a temptation for an opportunist burglar.

* Consider the position of key racks or shelves next to a door and ensure that they cannot be reached through the letter box.

* Use timer switches to turn on lights and radios when you are going to be away from your house at dusk.

* Consider the use of lights at the front and rear of your property that are activated when someone approaches.

* Consider the use of bolts and padlocks on side gates. Place the bolts at the top, middle and bottom of the gate, as just a top bolt might be easy to reach and open.

* Consider chaining together all high value items stored in outbuildings, as this will make it harder for them to be removed. Also consider the use of a wireless alarm or link your shed or garage into an existing home intruder alarm system.

* Consider property marking your valuable and sentimental personal possessions with liquid DNA kits such as Smartwater, SelectaDNA or with an engraving kit for items such as tools and cycles.

* A visible intruder alarm box can prove to be one of the biggest deterrents to an opportunist burglar, so consider installing a DIY or supplier installed system.

For more information on how to secure your home and property log onto the Home Office website - www.homeoffice.gov.uk, which also has a three minute test that will score your level of protection and offer appropriate advice.

Alternatively, log on to www.cambs.police.uk or the Crime Reduction Website - www.crimereduction.gov.uk.

Anyone with information should contact police on 0345 456 456 4 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.