AS dark nights and winter weather draw in Cheshire Police is warning residents to keep homes safe.

Officers say crime like theft and burglary is likely to go up in Warrington in the run-up to Christmas.

As part of operation Blue Christmas, police have issued safety advice for your house, garage, car and shed.

Sup Int Martin Cleworth said: Cheshire is a safe place to live where the vast majority of our residents will enjoy the festive period without incident.

"We want to ensure that the few people out there who are looking to cause problems for others find life as difficult as possible.

"The best way to do that is for everyone to follow this basic advice and protect their homes, vehicles and peace of mind."

Police advise you to: fit security lighting and burglar alarm, leave lights on when not at home, or use a timer, lock all doors and windows and secure outbuildings.

Officers also recommend joining a neighbourhood watch scheme.

Another seasonal risk to watch out for, is thieves looking for cars with engines left running to defrost.

Owners are advised never to leave cars running and unsupervised even in driveways.

And homeowners are also warned to keep keys away from doors.

The 'hook and cane' method is popular with intruders who use a cane pushed through a letter box or cat flap to snare keys.

Anyone with information on crime in their area is asked to call Cheshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

For more information on how to protect your home go to cheshire.police.uk.