Store easy-to-carry expensive items such as jewellery, MP3 players and laptops out of sight so thieves can’t see them. And consider installing a safe.
Think like a thief: if you can find a way in, so can they! Stand outside your home and think how you would get back in if you had locked yourself out. If there’s a way in for you, there’s a way in for a burglar.
Using your deadlock is important because even if thieves find some other way to break in to your house, it will stop them from carrying items out through your front door. But remember to leave your key in the lock when you’re at home as it can be dangerous otherwise if there’s a fire.
Don’t leave a spare house key in an obvious place, like under a doormat or pot plant. It’s like leaving a welcome mat out for thieves. They will always check the obvious places around the doorstep and entrance before breaking into a home.
Remember the basics every time – set the alarm and turn the deadlock. There’s no point having security measures if you don’t use them.
Tell your neighbours if your vehicle has been broken into at your home – thieves often target vehicles in the same street.