In only 9% of cases is stolen property returned to its rightful owner. Sometimes this is because burglars will often sell on items quickly and they become untraceable. Other times it is because once articles are recovered by the police it is difficult to find out who they belonged to in the first place.

Burglaries on properties whilst the occupiers are in are very rare as are attacks on people in their own home. However, there are a few simple precautions that you can take to make yourself and your family feel safer.

Most burglaries occur when a property is empty so when you go away, even if just for one night, then it is important to take steps to reduce the risk of your property being burgled.

There are around 12,000 cases of \"distraction burglarly\" committed by bogus callers each year. These type of crimes involve someone simply distracting the homeowner whilst another person breaks in to steal items from the home.

Installing a burglar alarm needn\'t be expensive and it can go along way to deterring a would be burlgar.

Burglaries on properties when the occupiers are in are very rare, however they do happen from time to time, usually at night when the household is expected to be asleep. Despite this being a very rare occurance, you should think about what you would do to protect yourself and your family should you ever find yourself in this situation.

Sheds and garages are often full of expensive garden tools and machinery, as well as bikes and other similar items. What\'s more, a burglar may not only steal these items but can use them in order to gain access to the rest of your property.

According to the police and research, windows are the most popular choice of entry for burglars. Therefore, it makes sense to pay particular attention to windows and their security.

It is estimated that two thirds of burglars gain entrance to properties through doors so therefore it is vital that your external doors are strong and secure.

Lets set the clock back to 1986. Youre a working mother. After school, your five-year-old child is taken care of in your home by a babysitter. Lately, youve noticed some suspicious bruising on your childs arms and legs.