YOUR home is more at risk during the darker days of winter.
Insurance firm Churchill says there are a third more burglaries in November than in July.
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Protect your pad with these low-cost measures . . .
SHUT OUT THIEVES: In more than a third of burglaries, thieves let themselves in through unlocked doors or windows.
Double-check that doors are locked, especially at the back of your house.
The harder you make it for a burglar, the more likely they are to give up and seek an easier target.
PAIN IN THE GLASS: Simply putting thorny plants around ground- floor windows can deter thieves, says David Clarke of manchesterlocksmiths. org.uk.
Adding a trellis to the stop of a sturdy fence will make it harder for them to climb into your garden.
Keep hedges high at the back to deter thieves, and low at the front so they have nowhere to hide.
BRIGHT IDEA: Almost four in ten burglaries happen between 6pm and midnight, says security firm ADT.
Shining a light on unwelcome guests will put them off.
You can buy motion sensor lights for as little as £12 from stores like Screwfix.
BE SWITCHED ON: Making it appear that someone is in your property if you are out will deter burglars.
Once darkness falls, leave lights on.
David says: “Timer switches for your lights are a cost-effective solution, available from most supermarkets for as little as £3.
“Another tactic is to use a TV simulator that emits light patterns resembling a flickering TV.”
SPOT THE SIGNS: Burglars may mark homes they intend to target with tell-tale signs, like paint marks on walls or fences, or flyers or stickers left to test if anyone is around.
David says: “Spotting these signs early can help you take precautions and safeguard your property before an intruder makes a move.”
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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