Now that the clocks have gone back and the darker evenings are here, the danger of burglaries is increasing.  More burglaries occur on Bonfire Night than at any other time of the year.

You can take the following 10 simple steps to deter most burglars:

(1) Draw the curtains in rooms normally occupied at night.

(2) Using timers, leave lights on in rooms that you normally occupy. Do not leave only the hall lights on, as burglars will quickly realise you are not at home.

(3) Leave a radio playing on a "talking" channel. Voices indicate occupancy to burglars, and they will not want to confront an occupier.

(4) Securely lock all doors and windows before you go out, and set your alarm if you have one. If your home is blacked out, burglars will look for the repeater flashing on any  fitted alarm box to see if it's armed. If there is no flashing repeater, this normally indicates the alarm is not set, and on seeing this the offender may try to break into your home.

(5) Fit an intruder alarm. If you don't have one, it's the single best thing you can have to protect your home (according to the Association of British Insurers).

(6) Don't leave spare keys under plant pots, bushes or loose bricks. Burglars will know where to look and find them. Hide any unused car keys.

(7) If you have a dog, don't lock it in a small room, but allow it access to at least the ground floor. Its barking may well deter anyone creeping about outside. Be aware, however, that your dog may trip your alarm. To overcome, this have pet sensors fitted by your alarm provider.

(8) Ensure that external lights are working correctly. Replace any broken bulbs. If the lamps are not working, replace them with low consumption units, which will save you a lot of money in the long run.

(9) Permanently mark your valuable items with your postcode or one of the high-tech marking fluids such as Smartwater. Don't leave valuable items on display.

(10) If you go away, ensure you leave a contact number or address with a trusted acquaintance, so that you may be contacted in an emergency.