POLICE have issued a range of tips to help people in Worcestershire keep their homes protected from burglars.

Officers have said all doors, patios and downstairs windows should be kept locked, even when residents are at home, and checked before going to bed.

Burglar alarms should always be set when going out and going to bed and car keys, identification cards and other valuables should never be left near windows, doors or letterboxes where thieves may be able to reach in and take them.

Unlit houses can tip off burglars that no one is at home but timer switches can be used to turn off lights while residents are out.

Garden gates and side entrances should also be kept locked and tools which could be used to break into a house should not be left lying around in a garden.

Any burglaries or suspected burglaries can be reported to police on 101. In an emergency always call 999.