The national group, The Neighbourhood Watch, have shared how you can protect your home and reduce the risk of burglary.

The Neighbourhood Watch Network supports individuals and groups to create safer, stronger and active communities but championing the power of neighbours working together to support, protect, and build.

In 2023, they are working hard to spread the message about the acronym WIDEN, a way for you to remember some simple step to protect the homes in your neighbourhood.

A spokesperson for the group said: "Nearly two-thirds (65%)* of us are worried about our home being broken into, yet there are simple, proven measures we can all take to halve our chances of being burgled. 

"We have joined forces with our longstanding primary smart security partner, ERA Home Security, to bring you our Think WIDE(N) burglary prevention campaign highlighting the simple, evidence-based WIDE measures which can be taken in any home on a variety of budgets."

The Neighbourhood Watch team believe neighbours keeping an eye out for each other is key to reducing burglary, so they have extended the WIDE acronym to WIDE(N):

W: WINDOWS: Keep your windows locked

I: INTERIOR: Put inside lights on a timer/smart bulb

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D: DOORS: Double or deadlock your doors

E: EXTERIOR: Put outside lights on a sensor

(N): NEIGHBOURS: Keep an eye out for your neighbours

Leaving home? Use this free home security checklist to leave your home safe and secure.

John Hayward-Cripps, CEO of Neighbourhood Watch Network, said 'We know that by securing your home's windows, interior, doors, exterior and keeping an eye out for neighbours, we can all give ourselves the best chance of preventing burglary.

If you have been burgled recently, criminals are familiar with your home and may come back once you've had time to purchase new items. Act soon to avoid being retargeted - use the WIDE(N) advice for a combination of simple yet effective prevention measures.'

The group have shared videos produced by the Police to help guide you through elements of WIDEN, including using light timers around your home:

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Learn more about the other WIDEN steps and how to access support from your Neighbourhood Watch community online.

Alternatively, view the Neighbourhood Watch Crime and Community Survey 2022.

Email [email protected] to join the conversation and share your stories of neighbourly support and community spirit.