RESIDENTS in Colchester have been urged to secure their sheds so burglars cannot find the tools they might need to gain access to their properties.

Essex Police Colchester has issued security and safety advice to homeowners in the city in a bid to drive-down the potential for break-ins.

The force’s officers have asked residents to lock-up their sheds using hefty and industrial-esque pad bolts and close-shackle padlocks.

They have also advised Colcestrians to ensure any hinges on outdoor structures are properly fixed and secure and cannot be easily removed.

Windows on such buildings should also be covered with added wire mesh or grills to help make them even more secure.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Many people don’t secure their shed or garage in the same way they do their homes.

“[They] often use an easy-to-break lock or padlock to protect valuable contents such as a car, bike or lawnmower.

“An opportunistic burglar will try a shed or garage first because they can find the tools they need to break into the main house.

“Stop burglars from finding the tools they need to break into your home by making sure your shed is secure. And keep it locked at all times.”

To find out more information about how you can prevent yourself being a victim of crime visit essex.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention.