The UK areas most at risk of break-ins this Christmas - how to protect your home
Experts shared tips to protect your home this Christmas
GETTY/PA
Burglaries tend to increase in the winter months, with darker days and the opportunity to steal what's under the Christmas tree.
Experts have shared the UK areas that experience the highest number of burglaries and what to do to help prevent this from happening.
A study created by insurance experts Howden Insurance looked at areas across England and Wales to pull its results.
The research was based on the number of break-ins per 100,000 residents in November and December over the last few years.
Burglaries can become more likely at Christmas time
PA
Areas most at risk by police force
South Yorkshire Police
Cleveland Police
London - Metropolitan Police Service
West Yorkshire Police
Humberside Police
Lancashire Constabulary
Merseyside Police
Durham Constabulary
Northumbria Police
Leicestershire Police
Hampshire Constabulary
Nottinghamshire Police
Northamptonshire Police
Derbyshire Constabulary
Cambridgeshire Constabulary
Lincolnshire Police
Bedfordshire Police
Gloucestershire Constabulary
Avon and Somerset Constabulary
West Mercia Police
South Yorkshire was found to have the most burglaries in November and December at 148.5 burglaries per 100,000 residents.
It had a total of 6,121 November and December burglaries between 2020-2022.
London was the area with the highest number of burglaries, at 29,124 during that period, but it worked out lower per 100,000. It had 110.5 burglaries per 100,000 people.
How can you protect your home?
The experts shared some ways to reduce the risk of being targeted, including installing security, securing doors and making use of timed lights.
Home security system
Experts said: "Consider installing a home security system if you don't have one already. This can include alarms, motion detectors, and security cameras."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
The darker days can make break-ins more likely
GETTY
Secure doors and windows
The experts added: "Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked before leaving the house. Reinforce entry points with deadbolt locks and consider installing security bars or reinforcements if needed."
Timed lighting
They continued: "Use timers for lights both inside and outside your home. This gives the appearance that someone is home, deterring potential burglars.
"Smart plugs and bulbs can be programmed to simulate your usual daily routines."
Secure valuables
"Store valuable items, such as jewellery and important documents, in a secure and hidden location. Consider using a safe for added protection," the experts stated.
Social media caution
They said: "Be mindful of what you share on social media. Avoid posting specific travel plans or that your home will be unoccupied, as burglars may use this information to break into your home while you are away."