Are you going on holiday soon? Here's a few precautions you can take to secure your home and possessions while you're away.

» Cancel any newspaper or milk deliveries for the period you are away
» Use a timer to set lights to mimic your usual activity when you are not at home
» Consider installing a burglar alarm, and only use a company that is registered or certified with the NSI or the SSIAB
» Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your house and they could even park their car on your driveway
» Make sure all doors and windows are shut and locked - this includes sheds, garages and other outbuildings. Keep ladders and tools locked away - don't make it easy for thieves to enter your property
» Mark valuable items with your postcode or take photos. You can also register your property on the national property database
» Avoid discussing holiday plans on social media. Burglars can use this information to their advantage.

If you have any information about offenders or see something suspicious, call us on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. In an emergency dial 999.