While the risk of burglary is year-round, November and December are peak months due to factors like early darkness, vacant homes due to Christmas holidays, and the presence of valuable gifts.
During this time of year, homeowners feel increasingly anxious about their security, with new research revealing that a whopping 87 per cent of Britons worry they're more vulnerable to burglary.
The shorter days are creating real concerns, with many people believing criminals will take advantage of the extended darkness.
"With shorter daylight hours creating increased opportunities for criminals, it's understandable that many people feel more vulnerable," said Anthony Neary, security expert at Safe.co.uk.
But this doesn't have to be the case. According to the security expert, there are several cheap and easy ways to protect your home this winter.
He shared his top tips, from strategic lighting to smart social media usage.
One in two never sets their alarm when they go out
| GETTYHit the lights
One of the simplest ways to boost security is through strategic lighting. It's striking that 34 per cent of people don't have lights on their property, with most admitting they hadn't considered the security benefits.
Interest in home protection is clearly growing, with Google searches for security lighting jumping by more than 70 per cent in just the past week.
"Install lights around your home to illuminate gardens, driveways and surrounding areas, so burglars can be spotted more easily, and picked up clearly on any CCTV," the expert advised.
Indoor lighting matters too, as it gives the impression somebody is home when you are out, or up watching TV when you are in bed. "Timers and smart plugs are a great way to manage this," he added.
LATEST PROPERTY TIPS AND TRICKS
Two out of five burglaries happen as a result of social media posts that reveal you're away
|GETTY
Sound the alarm
An alarm system is not enough, the expert warned, as recent data revealed that one in two never sets their alarm when they go out.
"Having a visible system can often be enough to deter burglars – sometimes it is not. By not setting your alarm, you are putting yourself at risk of not being alerted to any unwanted intruders in your home," Mr Neary warned.
Conceal your calendar
There's another surprising security risk hiding in plain sight. "Many people don't realise that simple household items can create vital 'windows of opportunity' for burglars," the security specialist stated.
Calendars displayed near windows are particularly problematic, as they let thieves learn your routine and spot when you'll be away.
Stay social media savvy
Social media poses another major risk, with 91 per cent of Britons posting about their holidays online. Shockingly, two in five burglaries happen as a direct result of these posts.
"Avoid tagging your location as geo tagging lets burglars know there is an opportune time to take what they want," Mr Neary cautioned. He suggested keeping holiday snaps private until you're home safely.
Enlist your neighbours
The security guru urged Britons to make home safety a community issue. He noted that "even asking them to do simple tasks like taking the bins out or removing the post from your doorstep will deter burglars and make the house appear like it is operating as normal".
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