Tips to prevent intruders

Police advise you to keep expensive items out of sight through windows, install good outdoor lighting, and keep ladders out of the house...

British police say unsecured homes are five times more likely to be burgled than others. Here's their guidance:

- Always lock the main door and windows when leaving the house, even if it's just to the garden.

- Keep all keys in a safe place.

- Install alarm system.

- Install good outdoor lighting system.

- Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on you.

- The fence around your house is strong.

- Do not leave ladders or tools outside because thieves can use them to break doors or climb.

- Remember to lock the side doors and back door.

- Don't leave expensive items within sight of the window.

In most burglaries, thieves usually enter the house through the main door by breaking the lock or smashing the door, so you need to make sure your main doors are sturdy, possibly adding bolts and bars.

Windows on all floors also need to have security locks.

When the family goes on vacation:

If you're going away, make your home look like it's still occupied by:

- Use automatic clock switches to turn on lights, radios, and televisions in the evening.

- Notice of stopping home delivery during this time before departure.

- Ask a trusted neighbor to collect mail and packages left in front of your house, and park their car right in front of your house.

- Avoid announcing your family's vacation on social media - thieves may get the information.

According to VNE