DETECTIVES are this afternoon appealing for information after two reported housebreaking incidents in Dumbarton which police believe may be linked.

In the early hours of Wednesday, September 28, two residential properties were broken into.

In the first incident on Strowans Road, the householder heard the front door being closed at around 0050 hours.

Upon investigation, they discovered that a set of house keys had been stolen.

In the second incident on Denny Crescent, the householder woke to discover his car, a grey Mercedes A250, had been stolen.

Detective Constable Bruce Fyfe from Clydebank CID is leading the enquiry.

He said: "Enquiries are underway to trace the person responsible for these incidents.

"We have been speaking to many local residents and are continuing to assess opportunities to capture CCTV.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives based at Clydebank Police Office via 101.

"Alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 were information can be given in complete confidence."

Police Scotland have today announced measures which householders can take to protect their property.

A spokesperson said: "Although having your home broken into is something many people fear we would like to reassure local residents that there are many ways to help protect your home from intruders.

"Keep your home securely locked at all times.

"Many thieves are opportunists and gain entry via a door or window which has been left open or unlocked.

"Don’t leave keys under mats or anywhere else an intruder could find them.

"Don't put your name or room number on your keyring if you live in shared accommodation.

"If it is lost or stolen, the thief will have information that could direct them to your home and your property.

"And don’t keep house keys and car keys on the same key ring.

"Avoid keeping large amounts of cash in the house. If you must, then disperse it in various locations."

The spokesperson continued: "Security mark your property with a UV marker pen.

"You can use this pen to place an invisible imprint of your postcode and house number on your possessions.

"Record details of your valuables, such as mobile phone, cameras, laptops and tablets on the national mobile property register at www.immobilise.com."

For further advice about protecting valuables and vehicles, visit Police Scotland's Keep Your Valuables Secure, Keep your Car Secure and Keep Your Bike Secure advice.

And if you have a wall calendar, avoid mounting it near a window from where appointments can potentially be seen – this may give an indication of when a property will be empty.

For further information visit http://www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/home-and-personal-property/secure-your-home