RESIDENTS in Altrincham are being urged to take precautions after recent burglaries.

Police say it is vital that householders keep their their properties secure and their keys and valuables out of view.

Since March 1 there have been 13 burglaries in the Altrincham area - four of which have occurred as a result of keys being hooked by implements posted through letterboxes and cat flaps.

These four burglaries have resulted in almost £10,000 worth of property being stolen.

During one of the incidents on March 13, offenders helped themselves to £4000 cash after reaching in through a cat flap to remove a key.

Officers have increased uniformed and non-uniformed patrols in hotspot areas and are conducting home visits and bail checks on known offenders.

Inspector Clark Bowers, of the Altrincham neighbourhood policing team, said: "Offenders can easily reach keys, wallets and handbags by fishing through letter boxes or cat flaps with a cane that has a hook or magnet attached to the end.

“To avoid becoming a victim of these types of crime, residents should always keep such items hidden out of sight and well away from external doors and ground floor windows. Residents can also fit a letterbox deflector, set their alarm and leave a light on when they go out to give the impression that the house is occupied.”

To report crime call the single non-emergency number 101 or for more information visit www.gmp.police.uk.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.

During March 2012, there have been 10 fewer victims of burglary in Altrincham compared to the same period one year earlier, a 40 per cent reduction.

Since 1 April 2011, there have been 48 fewer victims of burglary across the area compared to the same period a year earlier, a 15 per cent decrease.