RESIDENTS are being urged to take greater care securing their properties amid fears burglars will begin targeting more homes during the lighter nights.

Police this week urged people to ensure garages and sheds are being locked and that no expensive items are left out overnight.

Chief Inspector Martin Woosey said: "Cracking down on both burglaries and anti-social behaviour continues to be a priority for police across St Helens.

"Over the coming weeks, we will be carrying-out proactive operations to target offenders and also offer crime prevention advice to local people."

Police's top ten tips for householders:

· Never leave cash or keys on house windowsills.

· Always lock up, even when you’re at home, or perhaps in the garden · Never leave your keys in vehicles · Always lock up sheds

· Make sure your old patio doors are secure with up to date locks

· Avoid wooden window frames as they are easier to break in to. And if you do have them, use locks, which cannot be easily flicked open.

· Noises are a great deterrent– things like a radio, TV or a dog.

· Use a real alarm, and always make sure it’s activated, even if you’re out of the house for a short period of time.

· Using security lights is really good too.