NEIGHBOURHOOD Watch co-ordinators in Fulwood have reminded residents of the crime dangers that summer poses.

The Lightfoot Lane and Lansdown Hill Watch -- the first in Preston to be requested by residents -- has given locals a list if security checks to make during the summer months, to help avoid becoming a victim of crime.

Almost 900 households have been given the following advice:

Lock all doors and windows when you go out -- no matter how short your trip. A spokesman for the group said: "Collecting children from school is enough time for a burglar to visit. Back doors and the rear of a property are vulnerable areas."

Outbuildings such as garages and sheds should be kept locked -- they are a new target because of the growing number of house and car alarms.

Postcode your property with an ultra-violet marker pen and photograph valuable items.

Don't allow any caller into your home unless you are completely satisfied with their identity.

Tell the local police when you are going on holiday; they have a list of people on holiday and will, where possible, make extra checks on your house.

Warn children about the dangers of talking to strangers and of playing on railway lines and near bodies of water.

Warn children using mobile phones that they could be the target of thieves.

Remind youngsters not to leave litter on the floor.

The spokesman added: "This is a good area to live in and we need to maintain a high standard of behaviour and work to keep crime at bay.

"Our watch was formed in 1986 and is probably one of the largest in Preston."