WITH British Summer Time officially at an end and clocks gone back, Police Scotland are encouraging residents to remain vigilant with home security.

It is not uncommon for offenders to take advantage of earlier hours of darkness and target properties in the early evening when people might not be at home.

Police are raising awareness about measures that can act as a deterrent to potential thieves.

North Ayrshire Community Officer Constable Kris Furey and colleagues have been out and about this weekend in North Ayrshire distributing postcards in local communities which offer the following advice to help residents avoid becoming a victim of housebreaking: - Use timer switches on lights and radios to make it look as if your home is occupied.

- Ensure all doors and windows are secure when you leave and when you go to bed.

- If possible use security lighting at the front and back of your property.

- Make sure all garden tools and ladders are locked away when not being used.

- Use a good quality lock on any garden sheds and outhouses.

- Make a note of all makes, models and serial numbers of your property.

Constable Kris Furey commented: “Often the most simple of methods are the best deterrent against break-ins.

“We are encouraging residents to consider leaving a light on when out at night, to purchase a timer switch for lights at home and to take some time this week to review their home security.

“Imagine having lost your house keys and consider how you would get inside – take steps to make this more difficult as it is likely a housebreaker would use the same method.” For further home security information visit the Keep Safe pages of the Police Scotland web-site at www.scotland.police.uk or call us on 101.

If you notice anything suspicious in your neighbourhood report it to Police Scotland on 101.