NEWS

HOWICK police investigators were busy with household burglaries last weekend and they’re warning residents to be vigilant and security conscious as the warmer whether begins.

“As summer approaches, people are keeping their garage doors open while they’re working out the back in the garden and windows are starting to be left open at night,” says Howick Senior Sergeant Andrew Berry.

He says many eastern suburbs homes were hit hard last weekend, resulting in a lot of forensic work for police officers.

“We have a really good success rate with our forensic evidence, both DNA and fingerprints,” says Mr Berry.

“There’s a lot of professional pride at stake getting quality fingerprint hits and quality DNA hits.”

He advises people to be more security conscious of property and entrance areas.

Mr Berry says it’s not

about turning homes into fortresses, but being mindful that there are people who “cruise around looking for easy targets”.

He says if people are gardening, they should avoid leaving garage or front doors open.

The same risk applies to cars, says the senior sergeant.

He believes owners should think sensibly about what

can be seen through vehicle windows, while parking in well lit areas and using alarms.

“Don’t advertise to potential thieves what you’ve got in your car. Take your personal belongings with you.”

Even in daylight hours, cars in shopping areas are still being targeted by thieves.

Last week a police helicopter circled Botany Town Centre car park for 40 minutes after being called to monitor “suspicious behaviour” by two loitering males.

“It’s about prevention. Don’t tempt thieves by leaving things in the car,” says Mr Berry.