'Lock it or lose it': Police urge locals not to get complacent with locking up homes and cars during summer

Officer in Charge at Armidale police station Chief Inspector David Cooper said opportunistic thieves prowling the streets can take advantage of unsecured homes and cars.

It struck him as "disturbing" that more than half of all property crime was related to a lack of security.

"Residents need to be more responsible and make attempts to prevent themselves from being victims of crime," he urged.

"Thefts are often crimes of opportunity and unlocked windows or doors give them this opportunity".

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New England police and Oxley police have both been cracking down on property crime across the Tamworth and Armidale areas in recent months, after a spate of break-and-enters.

Relaxing during the summer holidays should not extend to relaxing our personal and home security, Chief Inspector Cooper said.

"Criminals are generally opportunistic and keen to take advantage of any item left in sight and items such as wallets, handbags, phones, and keys that might give them later access to homes," he told the Leader.

"Vehicles are extremely desirable at present ... now is not a time for local residents to be complacent."

He said look out for your neighbours, and be extra aware of what is happening in your area.

While an unlocked car or visible keys might be attractive to a criminal, the officer reminded residents some recent incidents had involved forceful entry.

Police suggested making sure windows and doors to cars and homes were locked, as well as removing equipment left lying around in the backyard such as shovels, ladders and chairs that could help a thief break in.