As the year speeds by, we're coming up to the clocks going back on Sunday 28th October. Insurers highlight that darker nights correspond with a one third increase in burglary and other thefts so now is a great time to consider your security. Many break-ins occur in the late afternoon and evenings when homes are left unoccupied and in darkness. These simple tips can help protect your home:

• Use timer switches to bring on lamps and radios to make it look as if there's someone in
• Ensure all doors and windows are secure when you leave and when you go to bed
• Fit and use a good quality lock on any garden shed or outhouse
• Security mark your personal items with a UV marker pen - take pictures of items you cannot mark.
• Record the make, model and serial numbers of your property
• If possible, use security lighting at the front and rear of your home
• For more information about home security, see the advice from Police Scotland