• Close the curtains when you leave the house at night and leave some lights on in the house. Net curtains are no protection.

• Have a burglar alarm systems installed and make sure it is set whenever you go out.

• Fit good-quality door and window locks and always use them.

• Do not leave keys lying around or hanging inside the letterbox.

• Mark valuable property with your postcode to aid recovery if it is stolen.

• Deposit valuable items in a bank or install a safe in your home.

• Join a neighbourhood watch scheme or ask your neighbours to keep an eye out if they are at home when you are not there.

• Arrange for the local police station's crime prevention officer to visit.

• Fix a door-viewer and door chain so you can check on visitors before letting them in.

• Check that your insurance policy is up-to-date and that the full value of your home contents is covered.

• Garden sheds should also be kept secure as they usually hold items a burglar can use to assist in entering your premises.