RESIDENTS are being urged to ensure they are taking the correct steps to keep thieves at bay.

Ryedale Police are stepping up patrols to deter and target thieves – but are also asking residents to secure sheds and out buildings properly, particularly if expensive items are stored inside.

Police are also reminding people that garden tools left outside can be used to break in to homes.

Shed burglaries can be prevented by taking simple security measures such as using quality padlocks, alarms, and replacing standard hinges with strap hinges secured by coach bolts or non-return screws.

Garden side gates should be locked as an intruder climbing over is more likely to be seen as suspicious than one that just opens the gate and walks in.

Inspector Andy Everitt said: “Burglaries of sheds and out-buildings throughout Ryedale continue to be a problem. I urge owners to take shed security seriously by ensuring that nothing of value is stored in their sheds and that appropriate measures have been taken to deter thieves.”

Police are holding ‘Sheducation’ events across the district where people can get more advice. The first is on June 16 at Weaverthorpe Methodist Church at 10am.

For the all event details visit http://www.ryesafe.org.