"The summer months are usually a time for relaxation but that shouldn't mean getting complacent when it comes to home security. Whether you are spending the holidays at home or away make sure your property is secure.
"Statistics show that up to 50 per cent of burglaries are caused by leaving doors and windows open. Before householders leave their home or retire for the night they should ensure that all doors and windows are locked and secure. Have a burglar alarm fitted and set it every time you leave the house and for entry zones while you are asleep.
"Creeper burglaries are becoming more common. Ensure valuables such as car keys are kept out of sight and reach and park your vehicle in a garage to deter thieves.
"If your car is parked outside your house, fit a sensor light or park it under a street light. Never leave valuables such as CD players, sunglasses, sat nav systems or handbags lying in the car. They are only a temptation to opportunist criminals.
"A little preparation work before you go on holidays should greatly reduce the chances of coming home to a burgled house. First of all let friends or family know you are away and ask them to regularly check the property and lift the post. Let your local police station know the dates your property will be vacant and appoint a keyholder and always set your burglar alarm.
"Make sure you cancel all deliveries (newspaper, milk) and organise for someone to come round and maintain the garden if you plan to be away any longer than a week.
"The use of timers for indoor and outdoor lighting is an inexpensive and simple way of giving the impression that someone is in the house. You could also consider leaving a radio on or asking someone to come round to open and close the curtains or blinds."
Derek Ewing continued: "It is not just your house you have to think about. Garden sheds can be vulnerable if not fitted with adequate security. You may not actually realise the value of the items in your shed however they can soon add up. A cheap padlock is not enough to protect them.
"By following these simple but effective steps, shed owners can dramatically reduce the chance for thieves to strike. If possible, have a household alarm system extended to cover the shed or, if there is no electricity supply available, install a separate battery-powered system.
"A shed door and frame should be as strong as possible so that it can have at least one mortise deadlock fitted. Where this is not possible, fit a good quality hasp and use a good quality closed-shackle padlock too. Always remember to keep your shed locked when left unattended.
"For added peace of mind consider keeping all tools inside a secure box, which should be bolted to the floor. Larger items such as lawnmowers should be individually secured to make it as difficult as possible for anyone to steal them.
"Consider overtly marking/defacing larger items with the postcode and number of your house. This will make them less attractive to a thief and clearly identify them as being your property.
"Quads and trailers can also be vulnerable to theft and should be kept under lock and key when not in use. And, in keeping with their value, owners should seriously consider fitting specialist-tracking devices, which will deter thieves and which will help police to locate the equipment in the event a theft takes place.
"Finally be a good neighbour. If you see someone acting suspiciously in your area note down any relevant details such as physical descriptions or vehicle registrations and call the police. Help us protect your property and your neighbourhoods."
Anyone needing further advice can contact the Crime Prevention Office on 0845 600 8000.