People in Colchester's worst burglary hotspot are being warned to tighten security.

The town's St Andrew's ward, which includes the Greenstead estate, has come top of the list when it comes to break-ins

Now Colchester police's crime reduction officer Colin Stiff is encouraging residents to follow some simple steps to make life harder for burglars.

He said: "We must all work together to reduce the opportunities of crime.

"This can be achieved by the occupiers becoming more aware and by helping themselves to avoid becoming a victim of burglary."

SOME TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR HOME

Make sure you lock windows and doors, which should be fitted with security deadlocks

Make burglars think twice by fitting a visible burglar alarm

Fit window locks, securing windows on the ground floor first

Patio doors and French windows should be fitted with a special lock at the top and bottom

High walls, fences, thorny hedges and bushes can all put off burglars but make sure the front of your home is visible to passers-by

Do not leave keys within reach of the letter box or in a hiding place outside

Remember to lock garages and sheds and make sure tools and ladders, which could be used in a break-in, are locked away

Published Tuesday, January 14, 2003

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