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An increased number of residential burglaries has Berkeley police advising the public to lock up, report suspicious activity and avoid allowing your house to look empty as a way of discouraging break-ins. 

There's been a significant increase in the number of residential burglaries reported when compared against the same time frame last year, police said in a statement issued Wednesday. 

The most noticeable pattern of burglaries are occurring east of Ohlone Park, south of University of California at Berkeley, and in the Elmwood neighborhood, according to police. 

Police say they're monitoring this trend, providing extra patrols and conducting special operations to apprehend the burglars. In the meanwhile, however, they suggest taking precautionary measures. 

According to police, most burglaries occur when the burglar gains access to a home through an unlocked door or window. They're advising the public to lock up, and make sure to activate any alarm or surveillance systems in the home. 

They're also advising Berkeley residents to promptly report suspicious activity since those leads are often instrumental in closing burglary cases, according to police. 

When leaving town make sure to have mail and newspaper deliveries put on hold to avoid becoming a target of opportunity, police said. They also suggest installing timers for interior lighting.