POLICE are urging residents to be vigilant in the sunny weather after a town was hit by spate of burglaries last week.
There were nine break-ins between July 3 and 4 in the Hucknall area, most at homes that had been left unlocked.
Now police are urging people to lock their doors and windows in the hot weather.
Sergeant Simon Scales said : "Sometimes we get burglars who take advantage of the victim's weaknesses. You become more relaxed in the summer months and maybe not so security conscious.
"Keep your front door locked and do not keep your car keys in your vehicle. Do not promote to everyone you are going away.
"It is all about doing the right things to prevent burglaries. You have to be switched on and protect your possessions."
Officers urged residents not to leave anything in obvious places which would tempt thieves, and to fit security lights and burglar alarms.
Hucknall resident Carole Terzza praised the police for their fast response after an attempted break-in at her home in March.
She said: "I was in the house at the time. The police response was brilliant – they were here in minutes.
"I am more cautious now. In this type of weather it is easy access for them. They do take opportunities. People do have to have windows and doors open but you have to be careful and vigilant."
Detective Inspector Rich Monk, of Ashfield CID, said: "Some of the victims were asleep in their houses at the time. We are working hard to catch these criminals but we also need your help to prevent these crimes.
"Make sure that you close your downstairs windows before going to sleep. This is something people often forget to do during the hot summer months. If you see anyone acting unusually in your area please call us. Many of these crimes take place overnight."
He added: "Call us on 101 or call 999 if you see a crime in progress."
