Burglar breaking into house

People on Jersey are being asked to make their homes more secure.

The request comes as police launch their latest campaign to reduce the number of burglaries and break-ins.

In the first quarter of the year, the police say there was a 33% drop in the overall level of burglary.

But police are concerned it could rise again during the summer as people tend to leave windows open during the good weather.

Crime rise

The States of Jersey Police said: "A lot of burglaries can be prevented.

"In three burglaries out of 10 the thief does not have to force his way in because a door or window has been left open. Burglars do not like locked windows because someone will hear breaking glass.

"If you see anything suspicious, phone the police straight away."

The decrease in burglary is despite a 6% rise in crime in Jersey.

Police figures show although there have been fewer serious crimes in the first three months of 2003, Jersey has a problem with what police describe as "lesser crimes", such as vandalism, shoplifting and car theft.

The force said of the rise : "The police are taking it seriously and trying to find ways to catch persistent offenders."