Nearly 50 per cent of the burglaries reported last month were committed on houses under renovation, prompting a new warning from Dyfed-Powys Police.
While the county still enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in the UK, the warning comes amidst a new target for burglars scoping unoccupied properties.
Detective Inspector Owain Richards said: "I don't want to cause unnecessary alarm but I do want to create awareness that these burglaries have happened and encourage residents to remain vigilant and keep their homes secure.”
The police has asked mywelshpool to issue the following tips:
· Keep all windows on the ground floor shut at night and only open during the day if you are in the room which has the open window.
· Keep your back door locked and only open when you need to
· Do not leave keys in your doors or window locks.
· Ensure that no valuables are on display in the property, or that curtains are closed to prevent anyone from looking in.
· Fit a burglar alarm or security light if you can.
· You could consider using lighting timers to give the impression that someone is using the property
· Lock and secure any side gates to prevent access to the rear of the property