The north east of Hampshire has recently seen a rise in the number of distraction burglaries being committed. There have also been incidents of burglaries where offenders have gained access via UPVC doors.

The following Safer Homes advice can help you avoid becoming a victim of this sort of crime:

• Burglars can fool you into thinking they are genuine callers. Don't be the one who invites them in. If in doubt, keep them out!
• Stop : Are you expecting anyone to call on you? Do you know the person at the door? Don't be misled by what appear to be genuine reasons for calling on you.
• Check : A genuine caller will carry identification and will be happy to wait outside while you check it. Remember to source your own number for the company they are claiming to be from, don't accept a number from the caller.
• Chain : Fit a door chain or spy hole so that you can speak to callers or check who they are without opening the door fully.

If you turn anyone away from your home because they could not provide you with a genuine reason for being there, or you are suspicious of callers in your area, contact the police.

UPVC doors can often be easily opened if they are not locked with the key from the inside. Simply lifting the handle does not completely secure the door. Offenders have been known to put their arm through a letterbox or cat flap and use a tool to push the handle down and gain entry to homes.

It is important that people understand that these doors have to be double locked to be properly secure.

• Deadlock your doors with the key - don't just lift up the handle.
• Make use of all door and window locks fitted in your home.
• Consider getting a letter box deflector.
• Keep house keys upstairs or store them near the door out of sight for easy access in an emergency.
• Keep your car keys away from the front door and store them somewhere safe.
• Keep handbags out of sight.