Beat The Burglars

  Homeowners could be putting their properties at risk this summer as they head off for a well-earned break, a game of golf or a shopping trip.

 Government figures show that almost half of all burglaries take place while homeowners are away from home, with over £100m worth of items stolen during the summer months.

 To help homeowners protect their homes this summer, Norwich Union has produced some simple top tips:

• Tell trusted neighbours that you won't be home and ask them to keep an eye on your property. Supply them with a key, so that they can take your post in, put the rubbish out on the right day, and open and close the curtains so the property doesn't appear empty
• Make sure all windows and doors are securely locked when you leave and don't forget to turn your burglar alarm on
• You may want to ask a professional housesitter to stay at your home if you're going away for a long time
• It's easy to set timer switches for lights, TVs and radios to give the impression that someone is at home
• Cancel the milk and papers if you have them delivered
•  Hide or lock away valuables, such as jewellery or silver.
• Few burglars are professionals and won't want to waste time searching
•  Lock up your garage and garden shed, as well as any garden tools and ladders, which can be used to gain access to properties.

  Jill Willis, household product manager for Norwich Union Insurance, said; "Unfortunately, burglaries still occur during the lighter summer months, although people are often complacent when it comes to securing their home.

 Often the most simple security precautions can make a real difference between a family enjoying a day out or holiday and returning home to find that they have been burgled."

 Homeowners who are lucky enough to be away for extended periods (generally more than 30 days) should also take extra precautions to protect their homes from break-ins or leaking pipes - as well as checking their insurance policies to ensure they are adequately covered while they are away.

 For more information about Norwich Union household policies, readers should call 0800 888 222 or speak to their insurance broker.

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