Police are urging residents and businesses to be on their guard after the rate of burglaries doubled in the first two weeks of the month.

In two weeks between July 1 and yesterday, July 15, police said there were 21 burglaries reported in six parishes. That compares to 19 burglaries in eight parishes between June 1 and June 30.

The reported incidents of unauthorised entry during the first half of July took place at:

Eastern Parishes

• 2 homes in St George’s.

Central Parishes

• 1 home in Devonshire.

• 8 premises in Pembroke (4 businesses and 4 homes).

• 2 premises in Paget (1 business and 1 home).

Western Parishes

• 2 businesses in Warwick.

• 6 premises in Southampton (4 businesses and 2 homes).

A spokesman for the Bermuda Police Service said: “There have been no reported burglaries in Hamilton Parish, Smith’s Parish or Sandys so far this month.

“Members of the public are reminded to ensure that before leaving their properties unattended, all windows and doors are properly secured. Also, it is recommended that if the home or business already has security cameras and/or an alarm system, the equipment is checked regularly to confirm that it is operational.”

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to call 211 or the main BPS number 295-0011.