Insurance companies will cut the cost of your premiums if you improve the security of your home. Some insurance companies will even refuse to insure you at all if the security levels at your property are not up to a certain standard.

But it’s not just the insurance companies who need your home to be safe and secure. It is in your interests as well. A burglary of your home can be quite psychologically disturbing in itself, and those effects can last a long time. You really do want your home to be as safe as possible. Here are some tips to make that so.

Outside doors are the most important security concern. Your doors should be fitted with mortise deadlocks up to at least the BS3621 standard. These can only possibly be opened by a key, rather than an implement such as a plastic card or by smashing a window and opening the door.

If you usually lock a door from the inside, you should also fit it with bolts. The door itself and the frame should be as strong and safe as possible. Patio doors should be fitted with extra security locks, so that the slicing frame can’t be lifted of its tracks. Double doors should be fitted with top and bottom bolts as well as these locks. The bolts should have removable keys.

Windows should be fitted with key operated locks, particularly if they can be accessed easily.

As far as keys are concerned, don’t leave them in locks, and don’t leave spare keys outside the house in secret hiding places. Try leaving a key with a trusted neighbour if you are worried about locking yourself out.

Don’t make it obvious that you are going away or are away. Avoid giveaways by having a dark house with open curtains. Cancel milk and newspapers while you are away.

Make an inventory with details of your valuable possessions and their serial numbers, make and model numbers. You can buy a property marking kit to write the number of your house and postcode. Take photos as an extra precaution.

Don’t open your door to someone you don’t recognise. Use a door chain if you can, as you can look at the person and be passed identity documents without exposing yourself. Ask for proof of identity and call their head office if you are unsure.

Your small possessions can be stored in a safe. Make sure it is a good make though by asking your insurance company for a recommendation.

Burglar alarms are an added security measure, but you should again get the advice of your insurance company to ensure it conforms to safety standards.

Finally, join a local neighbourhood watch scheme, or create one if there isn’t one there.