The best thing you can do is to make sure that it looks like someone is home. If you can, arrange for a relative, trusted friend or a neighbour to look after your house. Ask them to open and close your curtains and to collect any post while you are away. Tips to help your home look lived in 

❙ Cancel any milk, newspaper or other deliveries. 

❙ Cut the lawn and trim back bushes and plants. They won’t look so overgrown while you’re away. 

❙ If you’re away for a long period, speak to Royal Mail about their ‘keep safe’ services, they will keep your mail for up to two months. 

❙ Avoid discussing travel plans where strangers may overhear about your absence from home. 

❙ Try not to leave valuable items, like your TV, stereo, DVD and computer equipment where thieves can see them. 

❙ If you normally leave valuable bicycles or other items in your shed, consider storing them in the house. 

❙ Place important documents and valuable items locked in a safe or leave them with other family members. 

❙ Security mark your belongings and keep a list of the make, model and serial number of these items. Take photos of any valuable items that can’t be marked, like jewellery. 

❙ Make sure you have up-to date contents and buildings insurance. 

❙ Use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights on when it goes dark. Before you go. Check you’ve locked all external doors and windows, any side or back gates, and that your shed, garage or any other outbuildings are secure. Finally, if you have a burglar alarm, make sure it is set. For more information please contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team or visit: www.derbyshire.police.uk