People are being warned to keep their windows locked after a series of burglaries.

Police are appealing for information about five burglaries and attempts in Borehamwood, and a further one in Bushey, which occurred in less than two weeks between July 30 and August 10.

Each of the six homes is believed to have been targeted because a window or door had been left open.

A property on Robeson Way, Borehamwood, was targeted overnight on July 30, where cash was taken after someone broke in through an open window.

On August 2, a suspect was disturbed by the resident at 5am Kimbolton Green, Borehamwood, while trying to gain access through an open window.

At 2am on August 8, cash was taken from a property in Oak Farm, Borehamwood, after an offender gained access through a small open window.

On August 9, a break-in was attempted through a partially open window into a property on Aycliffe Road, Borehamwood, but nothing was taken.

The same night, offenders forced open a uPVC door on Grange Road, Elstree, that was not double-locked. Wallets and an iPhone were taken.

Detective Sergeant Gemma Badat, from the Hertsmere Local Crime Unit which is investigating these incidents, said: “Understandably during warmer weather, people want to keep their homes cool by leaving windows open at night.

“But for opportunist criminals, open or insecure doors and windows are an invitation to access to your home and your valuables.”

Residents are advised to double-lock UPVC doors by lifting the handle, and ensure all windows are shut and locked when leaving the property.

At night, all ground floor windows should be locked. Optional but recommended deterrents include alarms, ‘dusk-to-dawn’ security lighting and light timer switches.

Last month, Hertfordshire Police made a similar appeal to residents for greater precautions after 13 break-ins were reported across the borough in two weeks.

Detective Sergeant Badat said they have stepped up the number of patrols in the area, but encouraged residents to do all they can to prevent burglars targeting their homes.

Residents should secure rear gardens by locking sheds and gates and securing fences. No tools, like ladders, should be left outside as they could be used by burglars.

Valuables should be kept out of sight, but can also be post-marked with a UV pen and registered on a free property database in case of theft.

Anyone with information about the above incidents should contact Hertsmere Local Crime Unit via the via Hertfordshire Constabulary’s non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.