58% of burglaries take place in the evening or night and 34% occur at the weekend

• Always lock the door and close the windows when you go out, even if you’ll only be out for a short time

• All external doors should have 3 locking points. Mortice locks will add considerable strength to your door

• Window locks can help to stop people getting in, especially in older windows and windows without double glazing

• Use deadlocks where possible

• Patio doors should have special locks fitted to the top and bottom

• Keep all spare keys to sheds and garages secure and out of sight. Never leave keys in locks even when the doors or windows maybe locked

• Always close blinds or draw curtains at night and make sure valuable items cannot be easily seen from outside

• If you are going on holiday don’t let strangers know that your house will be empty e.g. taxi drivers who come to collect you

• Use timers for lights if you will be out of the house overnight. They create the impression that someone is at home. If you will be away from home for a while, get a family member or friend to remove post from the door mat and/or letterbox. Don’t leave messages on the door for deliveries

• Install a burglar alarm and external lighting. Grow thorny shrubs such as pyracantha along fences and walls

• Mark belongings with a property-marking product