Police are urging car owners in Warrington and neighbouring towns and villages to be vigilant after several attempted burglaries reported across the town.
The call comes after a number of houses were targeted across Warrington and one car was stolen.
Over the past month, police have received approximately 27 reports of attempted burglaries.
The majority of these incidents are believed to be attempts to gain entry to properties in order to locate the keys to vehicles parked on the driveway.
An investigation has been launched by Warrington CID, and while enquiries are ongoing officers are urging residents to review their CCTV or doorbell footage, report all suspicious activity, and take action to reduce their chances of becoming victims.
Detective Sergeant Christian Gordon said: “Our investigation is in its early stages, but the initial indications are that at least some of these incidents are linked.
“Enquiries in relation to the incidents are ongoing and I urge anyone with any information that may aid our investigation to get in touch.
“I’m particularly keen to hear from any residents with CCTV cameras who believe they may have captured the offenders, or any suspicious activity on camera.
“I’d also urge car owners in the area to be vigilant, to review any security measures they have in place and to take steps to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime.
“Car thieves often scout for desirable cars in the day before returning to steal them at night, so I also ask residents to keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour in this regard and report any suspicions to us.
“Additional security devices such as mechanical steering locks and trackers are also effective in protecting vehicles from thieves.”
It’s important that you make sure you always lock your vehicle, even if you are just stepping away from it momentarily. Vehicle crime is more than often committed when the vehicle is left insecure.
Fuelling up or popping back into your house to get something are perfect examples of how easy it is to turn your back for a moment and forget your vehicle is unsecured.
If you have a garage, use it to keep your vehicle safe from thieves. If you are parked on the drive or roadside, think about how you could improve lighting, or consider doorbell cameras or CCTV.
If your car has keyless entry, make sure your key, and spare, are stored well away from the car. If you can, use a faraday bag. You can also turn off wireless signals on your fob if it isn’t being used.
Considering these options will make life difficult for thieves.
Anyone who sees suspicious activity should report it to police on 101 or visit the website. If you see a crime in action dial 999.
Cheshire Constabulary’s tips for deterring thieves from targeting your homes and vehicles:
• Ensure that all windows are closed and doors are locked at your property, even when you are at home or in the garden
• Never leave your house keys, car keys, purse or wallet on display near a door or window
• Use the security measures on modern windows which allow them to let some air in but still be locked
• Keep all valuables out of sight of prying eyes
• If you are replacing or fitting new doors and windows, get ones that are certified to British Standard BS7950 (windows) or PAS 24-1 (doors)
• Fit mortise locks (Kitemarked BS3621) to all front and back doors, as well as locks to all windows which are easy to reach
• Have a burglar alarm fitted at your home, but make sure that it is installed properly and works
• Use security devices, such as steering locks, to keep vehicles secure
• Park vehicles in well-lit areas and never leave them unlocked or with windows down
• Items of value should never be left in full view and should not be kept inside a vehicle overnight wherever possible
• If your vehicle does not have an alarm, get one fitted by a professional so that you and anyone nearby will be alerted to a break-in.
