AS the nights start drawing in, there is generally an increase in 'acquisitive' crime - in particular offences commonly referred to as twilight burglaries.

There are many things you can do to make your home safer and reduce your chances of being targeted in these types of crimes.

Here are some of the top tips from North Wales Police.

  • Always close and lock your doors and windows when you are not at home
  • Remember to set your intruder alarm when going out, if you have one
  • Close and lock doors of rooms you are not using while at home
  • Don’t leave patio or conservatory doors and windows open or unlocked
  • Make sure your regular bedtime routine includes locking up the house
  • Don't hide spare keys under flowerpots or doormats - these are places burglars will check
  • Keep keys out of sight and out of reach - don't leave them in their locks
  • Good lighting on the outside of your property is a great deterrent - we recommend LED lighting that stays on from dusk till dawn, which is often powered by a photocell
  • Display warning signs that your house has anti-burglary measures in place, as a deterrent

When it comes to looking after valuable property, the force recommends the following:

  • Don’t leave valuable property such as bicycles, tools, jewellery or gadgets out where they can be seen
  • Keep photographs of valuable items so they can be identified if stolen and then recovered
  • Security mark electrical items and other valuable property – this should increase your chances of being reunited with your property should you become a victim of burglary, and can also discourage a burglar from stealing the item in the first place

For more advice and information, visit: www.north-wales.police.uk/advice-and-support/