POLICE are warning residents in Trafford to be extra vigilant against thieves during the warm summer weather.

The advice comes as a response to a significant increase in opportunistic thefts across the borough in the last few weeks.

Thieves are taking advantage of open doors and windows during the days and evenings.

Inspector Neil Humphreys of Greater Manchester Police offered some advice to residents.

He said: “While the warm weather is enjoyable for most of us, burglars and opportunist thieves are taking advantage of open doors and windows to steal mobile phones, handbags, car keys or anything of value.

“They can be in and out in 20 seconds, so we urge everyone to be vigilant and to close and lock windows and doors when they leave a room.

“Keep valuable items out of view as some thieves will ‘fish’ through the window or letterbox to grab small items like your phone, bag or keys.

“We are targeting specific locations with proactive initiatives, but we ask everyone to help reduce the number of opportunities for burglars and opportunist thieves by closing and locking windows and doors and keeping valuables out of view.”

Anyone who sees suspicious activity is asked to contact the police as soon as possible to allow them to respond quickly. Use the Live Chat on gmp.police.uk from a PC, mobile or tablet or call 101. In an emergency, call 999.

There is advice on home security on https://www.gmp.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/.