Police warn householders to keep their homes secure

Such crimes tend to peak round the summer months as the warm weather means people are more likely to leave windows and doors open and unattended, resulting in easy access for criminals.

In some cases, property can be stolen from homes when the householder is still inside.

Kirklees Crime Prevention Officer Libby Walker said: “With the longer, and sometimes warmer, days, we tend to see an increase in the number of burglaries, particularly from unlocked homes. On just one day this week we had six burglaries at properties in Kirklees; including one at a family home where they admitted they never lock the back door.

“We know some people leave doors unlocked as they are expecting a friend or relative to come round. Having extra keys cut is far cheaper than losing your valuables, which are rarely insured if the insurance company considers your security measures to be negligent.

“Open windows are a threat too; never leave downstairs windows open overnight, even if they are small and only ajar a burglar could reach in and open them wide or reach larger windows to gain access if they are not locked or the key is left nearby. Upstairs windows are also vulnerable, particularly if they can be reached via flat roofs or can be reached using garden furniture to climb up.

“Remember it only takes a minute, we have recorded instances where people have gone into the back of house or into the garden and an opportunist has entered the house, commonly when residents have just arrived home. Sometimes their target will be car keys, aware that people often enter their house and drop the keys in the hall.”