Roy Rudham, Chairman of NWA said:

"At the National Neighbourhood Watch Association, we advise homeowners to take steps to ensure that their homes are secure from opportunistic thieves during the winter months. Whilst traditional security methods such as window locks and asking a neighbour to keep an eye on things (such as picking up the papers and milk) are important, modern tools such as timer switches on lighting and external security lights are vital to ensure the festive season is hassle-free."

Post Office Home Insurance- as of 16/12/2005:

• Optional extras to supplement the policy

• Building insurance offers a minimum cover of £35,000 and a maximum cover of £750,000, with a maximum no-claims discount of 35%

• Contents insurance offers a minimum cover of £15,000 and a maximum cover of £99,000, with a maximum no claims discount of 35%. Minimum "all risks" cover is £2000.

To get more details on the range and availability of Post Office® financial services at your local Post Office® branch or visit - postoffice.co.uk

17% of people surveyed said they plan to leave their home empty for one or more days over the festive season

**17% of 24.365 million households (According to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, number of households in Great Britain 2003 - 24.365 million)

ICM Research interviewed a random sample of 1046 adults aged 18+ by telephone between 28th-31st October 2005. Interviews were conducted across the country and the results have been weighted to the profile of all adults. ICM is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Further information at

Step one - Lighten up

Good exterior lighting deters thieves. Security lights which use infrared sensors to switch on and off when movement is detected are recommended. However any outside light that you can leave on while you are out will help. If you already have existing outside lighting you can buy sensors to convert them to a security light. A porch light can provide peace of mind when answering the front door and enables householders to check the credentials of doorstep callers. Inside the property, switch lights on when you are going out at night. The first thing an opportunistic thief will want to know is whether there is anyone in. You can make it more difficult by lighting up and switching on the radio and TV.

Step two - Get "shed-ucated"

Garden sheds are often neglected during the long, dark winter months. Yet the average garden shed now contains equipment and tools worth several hundred pounds. The lesson for householders is to get "shed-ucated." Fit a proper security lock to the shed door as well as key-operated locks to the windows. If you are planning to replace shed windows, think about fitting laminated glass. Padlock ladders to a secure fitting so that it is difficult for burglars to use them to break in to your home.

Step three - Know thy neighbour

A recent survey carried out by NNWA and Post Office® Home Insurance revealed that over a million people would not be able to tell the difference between a burglar and their next door neighbour. Get to know your neighbours and then you have someone you can trust to keep an eye on your property while you are away - and you can do the same for them.