POLICE are urging homeowners to be vigilant after a thief got into a house through an unlocked front door.

The criminal struck in Popley overnight on Saturday (December 28). A bag and a wallet were among the items stolen.

Basingstoke officers are now warning residents to ensure that all doors and windows are locked and shut at night and while the property is empty.

They have shared the following prevention advice:

Check your insurance documents for any specific security requirements or upgrades.

Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property.

Ensure rear fencing is in good repair.

Lock all windows and doors, remembering to double lock UPVC doors (lift handle and turn key)

Keep all keys out of reach and sight from the letterbox (remember a device could be used to hook keys through letterbox).

Do not leave ladders and garden tools in your garden, lock them away in your shed.

Improve natural surveillance at the front of your property i.e. trim high hedges.

Consider fitting security lighting and a burglar alarm.

Mark your property with postcode and house number and register your property for free with www.immobilise.com

Make use of timer switches to make the property appear occupied.

Get a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property.

Consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

Remove valuables from view of ground floor windows.

Store any high value items (i.e. jewellery, passports) in a properly secured safe or bank vault.