POLICE have issued crime prevention advice in an effort to reduce burglaries in the area.

Residents have been advised to consider installing a burglar alarm or timer switches to operate radios and lights if they are not in after dark or go away for a few days.

A statement from Braintree Police said: "Residents should make sure their home is kept secure at all times by keeping windows and doors locked, switch lights on or use timer switches when going out to make your home look occupied.

With an increase in burglaries where spare car keys are stolen, leading to cars being stolen, we are finding that the cars stolen are often parked in other residential roads and car parks by thieves as if to check whether they have trackers fitted to them.

"We therefore encourage residents to call us on 101 if they see a car that is not normally parked in the area for a prolonged period."

Other advice includes: 

  • Marking property with postcodes on all valuable items with a permanent marker, UV pen or with a property marking solution from companies such as Smartwater, SelectaDNA or Crimestoppers.
  • Download free tracking apps or software to smart phones, laptops and tablets - these can help track stolen devices. 
  • Keep jewellery in a safe place and locked up if possible. Consider installing a safe at home which is securely fixed to the floor or wall.
  • Photograph all pieces of jewellery against a plain background with a ruler next to them to give an idea of size and keep a record of this.