Lighter nights and warmer days (we hope). Good time for burglars.

Following the coldest winter on record for over thirty years, this Sunday (March 28th) finally sees the start of British Summer Time.

While most people will welcome the longer evenings and (fingers crossed) warmer weather, it is also a time of year when burglars seek to take advantage.

Although the number of burglaries across Sussex are falling there is always a rise during the summer months because of people leaving doors and windows open or insecure.

Trevor Cox, Sussex Police Community Safety & Crime Reduction Advisor, said:

The clocks go forward this Sunday and, with this in mind, we ask you to be security conscious around your home and garden. Please lock all doors and windows when going out or working in the back garden, put all garden tools away and lock your shed or garage. Don't be careless with your wallet or purse, even around you home. Place it out of sight.

It only takes a few seconds for a burglar to make his mark, so take a few minutes to make your mark against them. Discouraging them from targeting your property will help ensure you enjoy your summer.

"Please ask for our information sheet, which you can display in an appropriate place as a reminder. You can obtain one at your local police station or by calling 0845 60 70 999 and asking to speak to your local Crime Prevention Officer.

Because the best defence against any burglary is prevention, Crime Prevention Officers will be distributing the 'Keep Cool This Summer' leaflets across Sussex. The leaflets contain the following advice:

When you go out, lock all the doors and windows.

Don't leave fanlight windows open.

When you leave a room unattended, close windows and doors especially on the ground floor.

If you want to leave your windows open whilst you are asleep, fit window restrictors to stop people opening them to climb in.

Double check fences and boundaries to make sure they keep burglars out.

Secure garden tools and ladders in a locked shed or garage to prevent them being used to break in to your or a neighbour's home.

Keep all wallets, purses, credit cards and car keys out of sight.

Consider laying gravel on your footpaths or driveway, which can deter burglars from approaching your property.

Outside security lighting as well as a visible burglar alarm helps deter burglars.

For more advice on crime prevention visit www.sussex.police.uk or phone 0845 60 70 999 and ask for your local Crime Prevention Officer.

In an emergency, or if you see a crime in progress, always dial 999.