POLICE in St Helens are warning about a rise in burglaries.

Officers say there has been an increase in break-ins across the borough.

However, they have not provided details of how many incidents have been involved in the crime wave.

A number of burglaries or attempted burglaries have been reported by the Star in recent weeks following reports by readers.

Crime safety advice

In a statement police urged vigilance and issued a series of crime prevention tips to help prevent burglary:

  • Ensure doors and windows are locked overnight and make sure they are secure when you're in the house too
  • Don't leave items in the garden that could be used by a burglar such as tools or ladders
  • Fit outside security lighting and during the dark nights, use a light timing device to switch the lights on when you are out 
  • Remember to remove keys from doors once they are locked and don't leave your car keys on display or near doors or windows where they could be grabbed with a hook or cane

Do you have a story you want to share? We cover the whole of the St Helens borough and surrounding areas - email conal.cunningham@newsquest.co.uk