Empty gift boxes may lure thieves

FAMILIES should carefully dispose of present packaging to avoid being targeted by thieves.

Burglary claims increase by 13 pc in winter compared to summer, according to Halifax. And of the total 6,472 burglary claims received last year, 489 were in December.

Insurance experts urge households to cut up empty boxes so they fit in the bin, rather than leave them in full view outside the house.

You should also be careful about how much information you share about expensive gifts on social media sites. Thieves could also be tipped off as to when you are out of the house if you post photos of festive activities and Christmas travels.

Use timers for your lights, to give the impression someone is at home. And make a note of the model and serial number and keep receipts in case you need to make a claim.

Tim Downes, senior claims manager at Halifax Home Insurance, says: ‘Thieves will look for the path of least resistance, so taking some simple steps can help prevent your home becoming an easy target.’