Police are warning owners of shed and garages to be vigilant after a spate of break-ins.

A nail gun, Makita jigsaw, a strimmer and other items were stolen in break-ins across East Kent in the past three weeks.

Insp Julien Lawton from the community safety unit said: "While we carry out our enquiries into these incidents we would urge all residents to check their sheds are secure, especially if they contain high value equipment.

"Alarms, security lights and padlocks will all help to deter opportunistic thieves. However, should anyone fall victim to a burglary please call us immediately.

"Anyone who doesn’t have their property security marked can seek advice from their local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO)."

The break-ins happened here:

· Broadlands Avenue, New Romney on Tuesday 20 March where a strimmer was reported stolen

· Lyndhurst Road, Dymchurch between Wednesday 21 March and Thursday 22 March

· Pleasance Road, Lydd between Wednesday 21 March and Thursday 22 March

· Grand Parade, New Romney on Thursday 22 March

· Tritton Gardens, Dymchurch between 5pm on 3 April and 5am on 4 April where a saw, nail gun, and other accessories were stolen

· Burmash Road, Hythe between midnight and midday on 4 April where a Makita jigsaw was stolen.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in these areas or who has information that could assist with enquiries is urged to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference number ZY/017192/18.

Alternatively, contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Further advice on behalf of the police

If you have shed or garage alarms ensure they are activated and use close shackle padlocks and install security lights where possible

Make sure garden gates are closed and locked from the inside and store bins and ladders carefully so they can’t be used as climbing aids

Disable lawn mowers and other large machinery when not in use and chain items together or to a solid anchor point

Use forensic marking kits on possessions. These are traceable liquids which carry a unique forensic code, registered to an address or location. They are known to be deterrent to thieves and can help us identify suspects. Local neighbourhood watch groups will be able to advise you on how to do this or your local PCSO

Use lockable hanging baskets or secure the baskets to their brackets

Take photographs and record details such as serial numbers and identifying marks as these can also help to identify items if they get lost or stolen

You could also consider registering valuables on a property database such as immobilise.com.