Burglaries can often increase during the Autumn and Winter months, when the darker nights arrive.

However, crime prevention doesn’t have to cost a lot of money – taking simple measures such as locking your doors and windows, not leaving valuables on display and using your alarm can significantly reduce your chances of being a victim.

Here are some simple steps to make your home more secure.

• Always lock your doors and windows, even when you’re at home
• Always take the key out of the lock and keep it in a safe place, do not leave it in reach of the letterbox, a cat flap or where it can be seen through a window
• Invest in timer light switches, and set lights to come on and go off in your home – using low energy light bulbs
• Make sure items such as car keys, laptops, tablets, phones and cash cannot be seen through a window
• Do not leave power cables or charger units for laptops and tablets plugged in and on show

• Make sure Euro cylinder locks have achieved – TS 007 (3 star rating) or Sold Secure Diamond Standard for lock cylinders (SS312).

• If you have a burglar alarm always remember to switch it on when you leave the house or when you go to bed
• Why not start a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme in your area