Don't fall victim to a Christmas burglary - protect your home this season!

The survey has revealed that home insurance claims for burglary raise by 25% in December, with criminals cashing in on the season of goodwill.

With plenty of small, high-value gifts to make off with, it's the perfect time of year for opportunist thieves. However, there are a few ways you can help make sure that your home, and presents, are kept safe this Christmas:

• Don’t leave your gifts on show – either in your home or car.
• If you are leaving your property for long periods in the evening, consider leaving a light on. An unattended house represents an easy target.
• Don’t leave gifts in sheds or garages. Whilst hiding gifts may help keep Christmas Day surprises away from prying eyes, outbuildings are easy targets for thieves.
• Twinkling lights make your house look very festive, but make sure that you don’t have to leave any unattended, accessible open windows for cables or power leads – an open window is like an open door for a potential burglar!
• Once Christmas is over, and all your presents have been happily received, make sure you dispose of the packaging properly! If there is a box for a flat screen TV, an iPad and an Xbox sat in your recycling bin, you are advertising your property as a very attractive opportunity for a post-Christmas visit some unwelcome guests.