A police and Council task force has taken to the streets to find houses to break into – as an anti-burglary drive.

A team of Neighbourhood Policing and Bradford Council officers are patrolling Little Horton this week to identify homes with weak spots that could make them susceptible to burglars.

Inspector Deborah Garnett, of the Little Horton Neighbourhood Policing Team, who is leading the project, said the aim was to increase security measures and prevent residents from becoming victims. She said: “A task force will be identifying neighbourhoods throughout Little Horton and undertaking a visual audit of the properties.

“This team will include local Neighbourhood Policing Team officers and Bradford Council street wardens.

“They will visit homes and speak to the occupants about the crime prevention measures they can take. Officers will be looking for any features of their property which could be a potential weak spot, making them an easy target.

“Home security surveys will be undertaken which pick out problem areas in a property and highlights ways in which the occupants can rectify the issue. This could be anything from insecure outbuildings, vehicle security, lighting and overgrown shrubbery.

“We are still getting a number of burglary offences where properties are being left insecure. These could be preventable and I would ask householders to be vigilant and follow a few basic security precautions.

“Keep doors locked even when you are inside, as a number of burglaries occur when offenders sneak in to insecure properties when the householder is home. They often target car keys so they can steal the vehicle on the drive.

“It is good practice to get into the habit of removing your keys from the lock and putting them somewhere secure, but in a place that you and your family can easily access should you need to leave the house in an emergency.

“In the past year, the Bradford South Division has made some significant reductions in burglary. However, one offence is one too many and it is important that we continue to apply the pressure. If you see anyone suspicious in your area call 999 and we will quickly respond.”