South Yorkshire Police issue security advice to make life harder for criminals this summer

Dene Tinker, Sheffield’s crime reduction officer, said: "Keep ground floor or accessible windows shut and locked in rooms you are not using.

"Don't leave doors and patio doors open and remember to lock up properly before going to bed. Insurance companies often will not pay out if a burglary is a result of an insecure door or window."If you are carrying out DIY to your home, don't leave ladders and tools out. Keep them locked up."Make sure you lock shed and garage doors and side and rear gates."

Mr Tinkler also urged residents not to do business with strangers on their doorsteps."Often people who tout at the door for gardening and home improvements turn out to be bogus," he said.

He also urged residents enjoying the sunshine over the summer to remember to lock their doors when they are in their gardens."If you are in the back garden having a barbeque, don't be tempted to leave the front door open for your visitors to let themselves in," he said."Or if you are going out for the evening remember to use a timer switch on lamps to give the impression someone is home.

To report thieves and burglars call South Yorkshire Police on 101.