We use some essential cookies to make our website work. We’d like to set additional cookies so we can remember your preferences and understand how you use our site.
You can manage your preferences and cookie settings at any time by clicking on “Customise Cookies” below. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our Cookies notice.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Sorry, there was a technical problem. Please try again.
This site is a beta, which means it's a work in progress and we'll be adding more to it over the next few weeks. Your feedback helps us make things better, so please let us know what you think.
We have previously seen an increase in burglaries over the autumn and winter months when it gets dark early and we fill our homes with gifts in readiness for Christmas.
However, there are quick steps we can take to help keep our homes, vehicles and valuables as secure as possible, limiting the opportunity for thieves.
Burglars are often opportunists who will target an open window, an unlocked door or valuables on display if they think they can get away with it.
Many burglaries happen on weekdays, in daylight, when you are more likely to be out. As well as locking doors and windows using the keys each time you leave you can also:
Some items you own may be very expensive, unusual, antique or have sentimental value, and therefore would be extremely hard to replace if lost or stolen.
It's a good idea to:
Some burglars may break in to your property looking for the keys to your vehicle.
Always store keys away from doors and windows and take them with you when you go to bed. It's a good idea to store electronic car keys in a signal blocking pouch so they can’t be scanned by thieves.
As well as locking and alarming your vehicle, you should also:
Remember: If you’re clearing ice from your windscreen and need to go back into the house, remove the keys from the ignition and lock your car. Don’t be tempted to leave it running.
Places where you store tools, machinery and other valuable equipment offer easy pickings to thieves - especially when items such as lawnmowers are likely to be packed away until spring.
You can reduce the risk of having your property stolen by:
If your property is recovered after being stolen, you have more chance of getting it back if you have recorded some details (make, model, serial number and identifying marks) and have pictures of the items.
You can also:
The thought of unexpected callers knocking at your door can be worrying to some - particularly older neighbours or family members.
While most people who call at your home will be genuine, occasionally people can try to trick their way into your home to steal your valuables and money. They are known as 'distraction burglars' or 'bogus callers'.
Be cautious; people from water, gas and electric companies rarely visit without appointments. If there's a real emergency, police and firefighters are likely to be there.
On rare occasions, people may pose as members of the emergency services or armed forces to gain access to someone's home. If you're unsure, follow the tips below.
Remember, you are never obliged to answer your door.
We will be providing regular crime prevention advice and updates in the lead up to, and during the festive season.
Find us on Facebook or follow us on X (formerly Twitter) to keep up-to-date with the latest information.