SHEDS and garages are being targeted by burglars in rural towns. 

Horsham Police said while the overall number of incidents is low, the public must remain vigilant to break-ins.

Officers have received reports of burglaries in Storrington, Plummers Plain and Rowhook in recent days.

A Horsham Police spokesman said: “While burglary rates are still low, we've recently received reports of outbuildings such as sheds and garages being broken into.

“Make it more difficult for burglars by ensuring you protect your home, belongings and by checking your outside security.

“Many people don’t secure their shed or garage in the same way they do their homes - often using an easy-to-break lock or padlock to protect valuable contents such as a car, bike or lawnmower.

“An opportunistic burglar will try a shed or garage first because they can find the tools they need to break into the main house.”

Police say one of the best ways to deter a thief is to put an alarm on the outbuilding.

“Consider a battery-operated shed alarm,” the spokesman said. “They look low key, but they respond to movement or door contact with an extremely loud siren.”

Alternatively, the police spokesman also suggesting the public “think like a thief”.

He added: “Take a look at your shed and consider how you would break in.

“It’s worth having a good padlock on the door with no exposed screws. Pay attention to hinges, as these are sometimes easily removable. If you have windows then these could be vulnerable unless they’re secured with wire mesh or grills. And keep it locked at all times.”

According to Sussex Police, the top five most commonly stolen items from sheds are bikes, mowers, sports equipment, power tools and garden tools.

To combat these thefts, the police suggest the public “lock it, hide it or mark it”.

“Tools can be locked inside a locker or box or secured with a chain,” the spokesman added. “Secure your bike to the ground or a lockable stand within a locked shed or garage.

“It’s always worth draping an old sheet or blanket over the top of mowers or bikes to keep them covered from view.

“Although it might sound like stating the obvious, never leave your garage or shed door unlocked if you’re not around.”