Police have encouraged residents to display signs in their windows in order to ward off potential burglars and cold callers.

The call comes from Staffordshire Police, who have recently launched a campaign informing residents of how they can secure their properties in an effort to reduce burglaries across the county.

The signs display the phrase "NO COLD CALLERS", and also include a number of tips on how to prevent burglaries, including:

• If you have a chain on your door, use it. Don't remove it unless you're absolutely certain that the person is genuine

• Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you're only going out for a few minutes

• Make sure that any valuables are out of sight

• Keep handbags away from the letterbox or cat flap and hide all keys including car keys. Thieves could hook keys or valuables through a small opening

• If you're out all day use a timer device to automatically turn lights and a radio on at night

• Set your house alarm

• Make sure the side gate is locked

• Lock your shed or garage

Staffordshire Police Community Engagement Assistant Emma Ray said: "Would be burglars can be clever and will use any opportunity to access your property, even an open window gives them the opportunity to strike. They often use distraction tactics to target the most vulnerable in the community.

"If you know a vulnerable person you might be interested in our printable (A4) image to fold and display in a window. The front of this image contains a clear message to dissuade cold callers and the back contains tips to reduce the likelihood of burglary."

Residents can also find out more about how to protect their property from burglary by visiting the Staffordshire Police website here.