People are being warned to secure their property before heading off these school holidays.

Police prevention manager Leairne Dow is encouraging those with travel plans to take some simple steps to help deter burglars from your home.

"Lock your doors and windows," says Dow.

"Keep valuables out of sight.

"Record the serial numbers of expensive electronic items and photograph these and other valuables.

"Install an alarm system - or if you already have one, make sure you use it - and get sensor lights fitted.

"Keep garden sheds and garages locked when not in use.

"Keep hedges or plants around doors and windows well-trimmed, don't give the burglar a place to hide."

It's best to have your car secured in a locked garage at your house, here's how you can further deter criminals;

-Park in well-lit areas if you park your car on the street overnight.

-Keep valuables out of sight - keys, laptops, mobile phones, GPS devices and wallets and purses - if you can't take it with you, tuck it away out of sight.

-Put a prevention sticker on your windows or flashing LEDs on the dashboard.

-Always lock your vehicles when you leave them and take your keys with you.

-Any boats or vehicles on your property should be disabled so they can't be moved or towed away.

-Consider a steering wheel lock - it's a great deterrent.

-Joining a neighbourhood support group can be beneficial to deterring theft, as more people in your neighbourhood can keep an eye out for suspicious activity.

-Let your neighbours know if you are going away, and keep an eye on their property if they're away.

-If you see anything suspicious happening now, call 111.

You can also provide information about non-emergency incidents via the Police non-emergency number 105, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.