Fit appropriate locks to both front and back doors and ensure external windows are secure.

If you are away from home for an extended period of time, make arrangements for the lawn to be mowed, mail to be collected etc. so potential burglars are not alerted of your absence.

Leave lights on if it will be dark when you get home, fitting timers if necessary.

Cancel milk, papers and other deliveries if you are away from home, even only for a few days.

Consider fitting a burglar alarm.

Keep sheds, outbuildings and garages locked. Consider installing motion activated lighting.

Ensure areas surrounding your home are well-lit.

Lock up ladders or tools which could be used to break into your home.

Keep valuables out of sight.

Do not leave keys, valuables or ID near a window, letterbox or door.

Always lock your doors, even when you are at home.

Mark your possessions with your postcode and house number with invisible ink which shows up under ultra-violet light.

Register any items with a serial number at www.immobilise.com.

Don't use social networking sites to advertise that you're going away from home, or let people know you have bought 'the latest gadget'.

Talk to neighbours / Attend local Neighbourhood Watch meetings.

Be alert to persons going from house to house, looking in windows, knocking on doors.

Report anything suspicious to police.