36 per centhike inburglariesin one year

Between April and the end of August, 178 domestic burglaries were reported, compared to 136 in the same period in 2013.

Detective Inspector David McQuade said: “Most burglaries are opportunistic. Those involved select what they believe to be easy targets, and that means houses without alarms and where doors and windows have been left unsecured. Burglaries have taken place while houses have been unoccupied during the working day, as well as at night. “Unfortunately, too many home owners are making things easy for the burglars by leaving doors and windows unlocked.”

He said locking doors and windows was essential adding that car keys were frequently stolen when intruders gained access to homes.

Use non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 to report any burglaries.