POLICE are urging residents to look out for their neighbours in a bid to combat an alarming rise in residential burglaries in and around Caroline Springs.

In recent months, Melton Police have witnessed a growing number of robberies among new estates in Caroline Springs and Melton and are concerned residents are not doing enough to protect their properties.

Thefts from cars have also been on the rise, with GPS systems, phones and laptops among the most tempting items for thieves.

Acting Sergeant Mick Downes said houses under construction were often an easy target for thieves looking to strip valuable goods and move them quickly.

“They often take out hot water systems, plasma screens, whitegoods and other items that have been installed shortly before people move in,” he said.

“With established homes it’s usually things like Playstations and jewellery that are taken.

“The majority of offenders are usually drug dealers looking to make a quick $50 or $100 to score their next hit.”

Acting Sgt Downes said many of the crimes were opportunistic and could be prevented if residents took steps to secure their properties.

“There’s so many simple things that people can do to help prevent them from being targeted by thieves,” he said.

“One of the best things you can do is get to know your neighbour.

“In tightly-knit communities, where everyone knows each other, people are more likely to be aware of when they see something suspicious and to report it.”

Police have also urged residents to lock away their valuables and invest in security systems and alarms to deter thieves.

“A lot of these measures aren’t expensive but they go a long way to stop your property from being targeted,” Acting Sgt Downes said.