With the clocks set to go back tonight, Thames Valley Police is offering ten top tips on how to keep your home safe from burglars.

Gemma Herbert, crime reduction adviser, said homeowners should not be in the dark about keeping their homes lit when the nights draw in.

She said: “There are lots of measures you can take to make sure your home is safe and as you reset your clocks this Sunday, it maybe the time to set new measures in place to reduce your risk of being burgled.

"We don’t want residents to feel frightened, there’s not a huge risk it will happen to you, but it’s better to be prepared just in case. ”

Top ten tips for securing your home this winter:

Use a timer switch to light up your home at times you might not be in to deceive burglars into thinking your home is occupied

Install a dusk ‘til dawn light at your front door and motion detector lights in vulnerable spots so you know if and when someone calls at your home

Use a five-lever mortice lock with accompanying rim lock for your front door. Make sure UPVC door locks are fully engaged and keys are taken out once the door is locked. Keep windows and patio doors locked and check frames, hinges and glass panels regularly

Fit a chain to your door and use it whenever you answer the door to a caller and a door viewer is also a good idea to see who’s behind it before you answer

Property mark all items of value with a UV pen and write your house name or number and your postcode - this will help trace it back to you if it should be stolen

Don’t leave valuable items on display

Use trellising on fences and walls around your property. Prikka strip is also an effective means of keeping people out - you can find it at most security companies and DIY stores

Don’t leave keys on display, but make sure they are in a safe place in the event of a fire

Look out for each other, as it’s a known fact some offenders will avoid neighbourhood watch areas. Even if your road doesn’t have a scheme, look out for things which seem suspicious, or set one up!

A visible burglar alarm also works as a deterrent. Make sure you get at least three quotes and details of the package each company is offering before going ahead with installation.