HOLIDAY-goers from Southampton had their homes targeted when burglars broke in while they were away.

It comes after three burglaries were reported to police between July 24 and August 9.

The burglaries happened at various times during the two weeks, where residents had been away from their properties after going on holiday.

Now police are warning residents to be on their guard.

It was mostly small items that were stolen and as part of this they are investigating:

  • A burglary at an address on Wilton Crescent, Southampton between 5pm on Friday 24 July and 7.30am on Monday 10 August (Crime ref: 44200303017)
  • A burglary at an address on Regents Park Road, Southampton between Wednesday 29 July and Thursday 6 August (Crime ref: 44200297134)
  • An attempted burglary at an address on Heysham Road, Southampton between Saturday 2 and Saturday 9 August (Crime ref: 44200301654)

A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: "We would like to hear from anyone with information on any of these incidents. Did you notice anything suspicious? Perhaps you saw someone hanging around the area?

"Anyone with information can phone 101, quoting the respective crime reference numbers above.

"We also wanted to take the opportunity to remind you of our crime prevention advice around burglaries:

  • Shut all windows and lock them when you are not using the room, at night and when you leave your property for any extended period of time
  • Lock all front and rear doors at night and when you are out – especially if you go on holiday. If you have a UPVC door with a multi-point lock ensure you lift the handle and lock it with the key. Remove the key after the door or window is locked.
  • Do not actively promote the fact that you’re going on holiday; especially on social media. It presents an opportunity to opportunists who may be monitoring social media in the local community.
  • Put all car keys and other keys out of sight and not in reach of windows and letterboxes. It doesn't take much for the keys to be hooked through the letterbox.
  • Leave a light on so your home looks occupied if you are going out for the evening. If you head out while it is still daylight and won't be back till after dark then timer switches (available from most DIY stores) can be useful for turning your lights, radios and other appliances on at a set time before you get back.
  • Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property.
  • Have an intruder alarm system installed by an approved contractor. Ensure a visible alarm box is attached to the outside of your home. Also consider fitting security lighting.
  • Record the details of your property such as serial numbers for electronic goods on the Immobilise website