POSTING your holiday plans on social media can be exploited by burglars.

This is the stark warning from Cheshire Police to remind holiday makers not to advertise their empty houses online.

Crime reduction advisor at Cheshire Police Lynn Parr has urged residents to keep their homes safe and secure by being careful what information is published for friends and strangers.

She said: "Only tell people who need to know that you are going away and avoid discussing holiday plans on public social media sites.

"Burglars can use this information to their advantage."

Ahead of the summer holidays, officers at Cheshire Police are urging residents to keep their homes secure to help prevent sneak-in burglaries.

Homeowners are being warned to stay security conscious – even when they are at home.

She said: "During warm weather, we tend to experience an increase in the number of opportunist sneak-in burglaries, where criminals take advantage of homeowners who have left windows open, patios unlocked and doors ajar.

"It is vitally important to have an awareness of your home security so criminals don′t exploit the opportunity of an open door or window to enter your home and steal your belongings.

"We remind residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police."

While you are away, residents are encouraged to ask a trusted neighbour of friend to pick up your post and open and close your curtains.

Use time switches on radios or lights to make it appear that someone is home.

If you are not leaving your car at home, ask a neighbour to park in your drive while you are on holiday.

Cancel milk and newspaper deliveries and always remember to lock your windows and doors.

Make sure all valuables are locked away and use your burglar alarm if you have one installed in your home.

Lynn added: “The best thing you can do when you go away is to make sure that it looks like someone is at home."