POLICE have warned homeowners and holidaymakers to safeguard their property and themselves against thieves and muggers this summer.

Every year, thieves steal belongings as residents' backs are turned and burglars break into empty homes knowing the owners are away.

When travelling abroad, holidaymakers should use reputable taxi firms, and keep passports and travellers cheques safe and secure.

Police say tourists should never carry excessive amounts of money or wear large amounts of jewellery. If alone, personal attack alarms should be used and tourists should never stray into unfamiliar areas.

Further police advice includes:

Discreetly cancel milk and newspapers.

Use automatic light switches.

Do not leave expensive property on view.

Lock and alarm sheds and garages. Secure all tools.

Hide and lock ladders.

Consider joining a homewatch scheme.

Ask neighbours to collect all post.

The advice comes as latest figures reveal more than a million homes are burgled every year.

PC Chris Waters, Crime Reduction Advisor at Astley Bridge Police Station, added: "Have a general look at your house and mark all valuable items with ultra-violet marker pens with your postcode and house number. Consider taking photographs of expensive jewellery items and deposit everything in a safe place."

Free advice leaflets are available at Bolton Central and Astley Bridge Police Stations and for free guidance booklets, contact the BSIA's helpline on 01905 21464.