Get an alarm and make sure it is installed by an alarm company approved by the NSAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland).

The installer should hold a PSA (Private Security Authority) licence. Further information is available from www.psa.gov.ie.

Ensure all perimeter doors are fitted with good quality security locks or locking mechanisms and that easily accessible windows are securely locked when occupants of the house are out.

Do not leave your keys outside your home in places such as under a rock or doormat; it is safer to leave a spare set of keys with a trusted neighbour.

Leaving your post unattended when you go on holidays is as good as giving an invitation to a burglar. Using

An Post's Mailminder service can at least prevent a backlog of letters building up just inside your front door. See www.anpost.ie

For further information on burglary prevention measures see the Garda website: www.garda.ie/crimeprevent.html