The run up to Christmas is a busy time for many people with presents to be bought and wrapped, tinsel and trees to be unpacked and arranged, and cards to be written and posted. However, it’s also a busy time for burglars because they know your property could be storing gifts, ready to be given on the big day.

Insurance companies also know this, which is why most home contents insurance policies automatically increase their cover in the weeks leading up to Christmas day. The increase will vary from insurer to insurer of course, but a 10% increase is not uncommon. The length of time that the increase is in place will vary as well – some may be for a month before Christmas day, other last into the first few weeks of the New Year. To be sure of what cover you have, check your policy’s details.

Of course, an increase in cover is small comfort should you be unfortunate enough to be burgled – much better to ensure your home is not an obvious target for thieves, either in the run up to Christmas or if you’re away over the festive period. Below we list a number of ways to deter crooks from viewing your home as easy pickings:

• Don’t leave presents in full view, even if they’re wrapped. Keep them out of sight, preferably in cupboards or drawers.
• If you don’t already have them, consider getting a burglar alarm and a security light.
• If you are away from your home for the night – either staying away or simply at a Christmas party – have a light and radio on a timer, and set the radio to a station with plenty of talking so that if someone is listening for signs of life, they might think there is someone talking inside.
• Dispose of gift packaging carefully – leaving a plasma TV box and such like outside your home advertises what’s inside it.
• If you’re going away ensure all your windows and doors are locked shut. Not only is an open window an invitation to a burglar but it could invalidate your policy should you need to make a claim.
• Again, if you’re going away for Christmas make sure you cancel any regular deliveries such as milk and papers, and ask a friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your place and collect any post that might build up in a viewable place.