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As the evenings start to get darker, we're asking everyone to take a few simple steps to help protect their homes and look out for one another. A few simple crime prevention measures can make a real difference: Always set your alarm, even for short trips like the school runMake sure upstairs bedroom sensors are switched on when you go out Lock all doors and windows before leaving — never leave keys in locks, as burglars can use them to let themselves inNever hide spare keys in the garden, garage, or shedUse timer lights if you'll be out after dark, ideally set to a "dawn to dusk" pattern or your normal routineConsider a fake-TV device — a small unit placed near a window facing a plain wall, giving the impression someone's home. Works with tilted blinds, not closed curtainsLeave at least three lights on timers around the house, and a radio on a talk stationMake sure that any valuables are out of sightIf possible, park a car on the driveway to suggest someone is homeMake sure any side gates are lockedClose and lock all your doors and windows, even if you’re only going out for a few minutesDouble-lock any doorLock your shed or garage | 
