Officers are reminding the public to remain vigilant as darker nights draw in.

At this time of the year, with clocks going back last weekend, darker nights create a better opportunity for criminals to survey and steal property under the cover of darkness.

Cumbria Constabulary is urging residents to thwart thieves by taking simple measures to protect their property.

An insecure property or outbuilding provides the ideal environment for an opportunist criminal and something as simple as locking your windows and doors, even when you’re at home, can prevent it from happening and give you peace of mind.

There are also steps you can take to protect your vehicle from would-be thieves, by removing valuable items and ensuring that the vehicle is locked when not in use.

A police spokesperson said: “We encourage people to report incidents to police and look out for each other’s property day and night.

“It could be a suspicious vehicle, person or something which doesn’t feel right.

"We are asking you to follow your instincts and report to police.

“When people report incidents, it allows us to see if there is a wider problem and, if so, therefore target our efforts to catching and deterring criminals in those areas.”

Here are some tips on how you can keep your family, friends and property safe:

  • Lock doors and windows before you go out;
  • Remove keys from locks and keep out of reach of windows and doors;
  • Ensure side gates and sheds are locked and secure;
  • Keep gifts, cash and valuables safe and well hidden, so they can’t be seen or reached by thieves;
  • Consider fitting a burglar alarm and low energy dusk to dawn lighting, check regularly to ensure they work;
  • Consider installing motion sensor lights;
  • Leave a light on in a room and draw curtains when you go out at night;
  • Visibly and permanently mark any property stored in your shed, keep a note of any serial numbers.

For more advice, visit the constabulary's advice centre for information you can use to protect you and your possessions at: https://www.cumbria.police.uk/Advice-Centre/Advice-Centre.aspx

Anyone with any information or wishing to report suspicious activity can contact police on 101, email 101@cumbria.police.uk.

Alternatively, call CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the dedicated rural Crimestoppers line on 0800 783 0137.