ELECTRONIC housesitters are being installed to give residents peace of mind while they are in hospital or respite care.
The free monitored house alarms are being fitted to a number of homes across Middlesbrough.
Crime Reduction Officer Sergeant Glynn Bass said: "When a home is left empty due to a hospital stay or during respite care it can become a target for opportunist thieves.
"These specialist alarms provide the deterrent that can not only keep burglars at bay, but will also give peace of mind to the householders."
Police say, if activated, the alarms will trigger a response.
"It's just what the doctor ordered," said Sgt Bass. "The last thing we want is people who need looking after worrying about their home
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