Window security is being emphasised as a key deterrent to burglaries over the summer period.
Many homeowners fall victim to opportunistic crime during the holiday season as windows, especially ground-floor ones, are left open to stave off high temperatures.
"A burglar will select his target because it offers him the best opportunity to carry out his crime undetected and with the fewest number of obstacles in his way," Hackney crime prevention officer PC Sean Whelan said.
He added: "A building that presents itself as insecure is far more likely to be targeted than one which is properly secured."
In addition to keeping windows closed, concerned homeowners are also advised to bolster security by fitting window alarms or vibration detectors. Double glazing windows and double glazed doors will present further obstacles to a determined burglar.
And common-sense considerations should also be taken into account, such as removing valuables from display and enlisting the help of your neighbours when you are away on holiday.
Levels of domestic burglary have remained stable over the past two years according to the government's annual British Crime Survey.
The study also revealed that only 13 per cent of adults have a high level of worry about the crime.
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