Warning issued as opportunistic burglars strike Gravesend during hot weather

PUBLISHED: 11:30 15 September 2016 | UPDATED: 11:30 15 September 2016

Adele Couchman

Burglars

Archant

Homeowners have been warned not to leave their doors and windows open unattended in hot weather after burglars have been taking advantage of the sun.

Officers are currently investigating a reported burglary in the Parrock Street area of Gravesend on Sunday where a back door had been left open.

A handbag containing cash, jewellery, bank cards and other personal documents went missing.

Gravesend was the hottest place in the country on Tuesday, where temperatures reached a sweltering 34.4C.

Sergeant Carli Deacon of the Gravesham community safety unit said: “It is perfectly understandable that people want to keep cool during hot weather. But nobody wants that to be at the expense of keeping their homes safe from would-be offenders.

“If you do want to open doors or windows, make sure you do not leave the room unattended as it does not take long for a thief to strike. Also remember to keep valuables out of sight as a criminal is less likely to enter your home if he or she cannot already see something worth stealing.”