Stay modest to stay safe

'Keeping up with the Jones's' may make homeowners proud of their new possessions, but leaving out the discarded packaging may also attract thieves, householders are warned.

December is the worst month for burglary, yet almost six out of ten householders can see their TV from the outside of the property, a quarter of homeowners can see the DVD player through the window, and almost half a million people admit to storing jewellery boxes on window ledges.

Homeowners are being urged to take precautions – as simple as closing curtains and blinds – to prevent opportunist thieves from being tempted.

Martin Milliner, from LV= insurance says: "Thieves are much more likely to target your property if they can see items worth stealing.

"There is a temptation to leave curtains open in December to show off Christmas trees and decorations; however we would urge home owners to take preventative measures, especially in December, to hide their belongings."

Home insurance providers could refuse to pay out if the householder is shown to be negligent, or to have breached the terms of their policy.

Homeowners are also warned that wheelie bins – issued to encourage recycling initiatives - could be used by thieves to climb over gates and fences.

30/11/2007 11:22:02