Christmas is coming up fast after a busy year for us all - here are 11 top tips from the police to ensure you don't fall foul to criminals.

During December police are reminding residents not to 'present' opportunities to criminals and keep their homes and valuables secure by following some simple crime prevention tips.

Burglary rates are currently lower than at the same time last year, but there is often an increase in residential burglaries in the run up to Christmas.

Inspector Nicki Dean, from Hertfordshire Constabulary's Crime Reduction Unit, said: "This is a busy time of year for everyone, especially criminals.

"They know that homes, sheds and cars are full of gifts and will be on the lookout for opportunities to steal them.

"Don't make things easy for them by storing gifts in the shed or garage, or leaving them in cars.

"If you leave anything valuable on view either at home or in the car, you may be presenting a thief with an opportunity."

Here are 11 top tips from the police to ensure you have a safe and happy Christmas:

Make sure you keep all your gifts in a secure place – don't leave them in the shed or garage, or on view near windows or doors.

Lock up when you leave – make sure all windows and doors are securely locked when you leave the house or go up to bed.

Security marking and registering your children's Christmas gifts will help to keep them safe and make them easier to return if they are lost or stolen.

When out shopping push your purse to the bottom of your bag and zip it securely, wallets should not be carried in back pockets.

Consider installing a door bell camera, internal camera and/or monitored burglar alarm.

Install 'dusk to dawn' external lighting and use timer switches in your home to control internal lights, radios and a simulated TV.

Keep keys and valuables secure and out of sight.

Ensure boundary fences are secure with side gates locked. Keep tools and ladders in a locked shed. Secure bins at night and put garden furniture away for the winter as these can be used by burglars as climbing aids to gain access to upper floor windows. Ensure your vehicle is locked and remove all valuables as burglars often check to see if doors are left unlocked.

Join Hertfordshire's Neighbourhood Watch for alerts and advice: www.owl.co.uk