AN INCREASE in the number of burglaries has prompted a police force to urge people to ‘Think like a burglar’ this winter.

Burglaries in Cleveland have risen by almost nine per cent between financial year ending 2014 and the same period ending last year - an increase of 89 offences.

September and October have seen the most dramatic hike with 62 more burglaries being committed – a rise of 32 per cent when compared with this time last year.

The force is advising householders to protect themselves from unwanted intruders.

A new campaign called ‘Think like a burglar’ prompts residents to keep their lights switched on while they are out and deter criminals from using the cover of darkness to their advantage. They have timed their campaign to coincide with the clocks going back this weekend.

Acting Detective Sergeant Kester Haith, from Middlesbrough volume crime team, said: “It’s important to remember to use lights when leaving your house unattended. Even if you’re just going to work through the day, you could be returning from work in the evening in darkness, so use timers that make it look as if someone is home. Simply leaving on a lamp or a light with a timer switch can be enough of a deterrent to a burglar to make them choose not to target your home.”

She added: “We are committed to reducing crime in Cleveland and want to help people protect themselves from becoming victims of crime.”

Anyone wanting more information on how they can keep themselves safe can contact their local neighbourhood policing team on the non-emergency number 101 or they can visit http://www.cleveland.police.uk/