People living in the South Lakes are urged to be vigilant after burglaries have surged in the area in recent months.
Now nights are drawing in, police have issued a warning to people to stay alert and not keep cash or jewellery in their homes.
Detectives said they have significant increase in house burglaries in rural towns and villages across South Lakeland in places including Dent, Sedbergh, Allithwaite, Grang, Kirkby Lonsdale, Holme, Burton-in-Kendal, Beetham, Levens, Storth and Arnside.
Detective Sergeant Duncan Helmn said: “We believe that a number of these incidents have been committed by the same person or people.
“In most of the cases the properties have been empty when the burglary has occurred, with the suspects using the cover of darkness.
“As the nights have now drawn in, we are beginning to see offences occur between 6pm and 9pm and have occurred when occupants are simply out at evening time.
“From the incidents reported to us suspects have been targeting jewellery and cash.”
Cumbria police said people should not have large amounts of cash in their homes and they should make sure valuable items of jewellery were in secure places.
Detective Sergeant Helmn added: “In the coming weeks we will be conducting extra patrols across the South Lakes to target those committing these offences.
“If you have any information or see anything suspicious around your home or your neighbours, please contact us.”
Anyone with information in relation to burglaries and Operation Firm can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or call 101.
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Cumbria police’s tips to keep your home safe
- Lock doors and windows before you go out and ensuring that your house and keys are secure.
- Remove keys from locks and keep them out of reach, not on a hall table.
- Ensure side gates and sheds are locked with a good quality lock.
- Keep cash and valuables locked away safe or well hidden.
- Consider increasing your security with good quality locks, CCTV and chains.
