POLICE are sending a clear message to burglars this summer - don't come to North Somerset. Avon and Somerset Constabulary is launching a special operation to crackdown on opportunist thieves who target homes during the warmer months. Police will be handin

POLICE are sending a clear message to burglars this summer - don't come to North Somerset.Avon and Somerset Constabulary is launching a special operation to crackdown on opportunist thieves who target homes during the warmer months.Police will be handing out crime prevention leaflets in the shape of an ice cream cone with the slogan 'Burglary - together we can lick it'.PCSOs will be visiting all properties in streets where a burglary has occurred to give crime prevention advice.The Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) vehicle will be located on various roads to pinpoint wanted vehicles connected with burglaries.Officers will also be visiting secondhand markets to identify and recover stolen property and question sellers suspected to be involved in dealing stolen property.Crime Reduction Officer PC Steve Burrough said: "North Somerset is a safe place to live but, like any town or city, if you give thieves an easy opportunity to steal from you they will no doubt take it."In the summer, when we get hot weather, everybody needs to cool down and the way most of us do this is to open doors and windows in our homes. "In some areas up to 66 per cent of our house burglaries do not involve any type of forced entry; they simply use that open door or usually a window."The other main reason for leaving doors and windows open is the fact that you're working in the garden or even sunbathing, if you're lucky! "A burglar is usually careful but they will take risks that you and I wouldn't, for example they will walk into your home when you're out in the garden."Police are also reminding residents about keeping their houses secure when going on holiday.PC Burrough added: "Make sure you cancel your paper and milk delivery when you are on holiday. A collection of milk and papers at your front door is a clear sign to thieves that a property is empty." If you require further details or know of someone who may benefit from some crime prevention advice please contact your Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 456 7000 or visit the force website www.avonandsomerset.police.uk