POLICE will be sending crime prevention advice to residents by text message in the next few days as part of a new scheme.

Messages will be sent by bluetooth to mobile phones in areas across Lancashire where burglaries have taken place.

Messages will include warnings to make sure doors and windows are locked and houses are secure.

Officers will be using the novel method to highlight to residents, important information about home security and police hope they will remind people about the importance of keeping properties locked, especially during the night.

This comes as part of Operation Julius, a countywide campaign to reduce burglaries in Lancashire.

Chief Inspector Damian Darcy said: “These messages should act as a wake-up call to residents reminding them to make sure their doors and windows are locked and that their houses are secure.

“In the summer, and particularly due to the very warm weather, we know that people have a tendency to leave windows and doors open, leaving them vulnerable to burglars.

“These open doors and windows are invitations to a burglar. In over a third of all burglaries, thieves don’t have to break in because people have left windows and doors unlocked.

“Getting a text message from the police as you settle down for the night, telling you that a burglary may have occurred in your area and asking you if you have made sure your windows and doors are secure will definitely make people sit up in bed, think and take action.

“If a burglary occurs officers will be deployed to that area to prevent further offences.

"As part of their patrol plan these text messages will be sent out.

“The text messages will point out that burglary in Lancashire is at its lowest in 35 years and we want to keep it that way. Residents have a crucial part to play.”