Crime prevention advice has been issued after a spree of car key burglaries in Southampton, Eastleigh and Hedge End. 

Police said they received eight reports of car key or 'vamoose' burglaries in the area between January 13 and February 25. 

The thefts included a variety of makes and models and in all eight cases, entry was gained to an address and the keys were taken from within. 

Offenders gained access either through insecure doors and windows or by damaging key safes in order to reveal house keys.

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Hampshire Constabulary says this is very often the case with 'vamoose' burglaries, where car keys are left next to an open door or window of a building or, in more extreme cases, where thieves place a long stick or fishing rod through letterboxes to hook the keys and steal the vehicle.

The force has now issued the following advice to help protect your property: 

• Where possible, park your car in a garage.

• If you can't park your car in a garage, park your car in a well-lit area – either on your driveway, or on the road under a street lamp.

• Make sure that your vehicle is properly dead-locked and that the alarm and immobiliser is fully activated.

• If your car does not already have an alarm or immobiliser, consider having a Thatcham-approved product fitted. Speak with your manufacturer before making any modifications.

• Lock all car windows and doors.

• Keep your car keys away from any windows and doors to prevent them from being "fished" through letterboxes, or seen by opportunist thieves. However, make sure you know where they are in case of fire.

• Consider installing a letterbox deflector.

• Ensure that your front door is locked correctly (lift handle and turn key if UPVC door).

• If keys have been taken, change car locks immediately.

• Lock all doors and windows in your home.

Crimes of this nature can be reported by calling 101, or online via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or report via their website.

More crime prevention advice can be found on the police's website.