Hertfordshire Constabulary is urging residents in Hitchin and across the county to take extra care of home security as the darker evenings set in, with police warning that burglaries typically increase during autumn and winter.

Since 1 April, there have been 143 burglaries in St Albans, 132 in Dacorum, and 112 in Hertsmere — and officers say numbers tend to rise once the clocks go back, as unlit homes in the late afternoon can alert opportunistic thieves.

Detective Superintendent Anthony Alcock, from the Constabulary's Criminal Investigation Department, said:

"Taking care of your home security is essential at any time of the year, but during the autumn and winter months burglars are especially active. Burglary rates have begun to rise in some areas and once the clocks go back this trend is likely to continue.

"Making sure your home appears occupied is the best way to deter burglars. This can easily be achieved by using a timer to switch on a light when it gets dark. Securing windows and double-locking PVCu doors also makes your home more secure."

Police will be running crime prevention events across Hertfordshire over the coming months and sharing practical safety advice through their social media channels.

Residents are encouraged to invest in affordable security measures such as motion-sensor lights, doorbell cameras, and Wi-Fi-enabled interior cameras, which have helped deter break-ins and even led to arrests.

Herts Police also shared the following home security tips:

• Always lock doors and windows, and double-lock PVCu doors by lifting the handle and turning the key.
• Use timers or Wi-Fi plugs to switch lights or radios on automatically at dusk.
• Install doorbell or internal cameras and consider a monitored alarm.
• Keep valuables and car keys out of sight.
• Secure fences, side gates and sheds; lock away ladders and garden furniture.
• Remove valuables from vehicles and ensure they are locked.
• Report suspicious activity and look out for vulnerable neighbours.

For more home security advice, visit Hertfordshire Constabulary's crime prevention pages or sign up for Herts Connected at hertsconnected.co.uk, where you can receive free local police updates and messages from Neighbourhood Watch, Action Fraud and the Police and Crime Commissioner.

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