Police in Greenwich are encouraging residents to deter burglary, particularly those with PVC doors, by securing their homes when leaving them unoccupied.

Burglaries are being committed without the need to use force as entry is gained through unlocked windows and doors.

Victims of burglary who have PVC doors often do not realise that these can be opened from the outside because they have not been locked correctly. Members of the public who have PVC doors should ensure that they lift the handle, turn the key fully, and then check the door is securely locked. Many doors have a five-levers dead bolt system which is activated when the inside handle is lifted upwards.

To ensure that bolts stay in place, doors have to be locked correctly. If PVC doors are not locked properly, all but the centre bolt can be disarmed from the outside. Burglars therefore only have to force one bolt to gain entry.

With the onset of the summer months many are often tempted to leave windows partially open for ventilation. This presents burglars with an easy way into your home especially when the property appears unoccupied.

Chief Inspector Andy Johnstone said: "I would urge all residents to secure their homes when leaving them unoccupied. Burglars are often opportunist; they will target houses and properties which offer the opportunity to carry out crime with the fewest number of obstacles in the way. All windows should be closed and PVC doors should locked, even when you intend to return within a short space of time."