Implementing solutions such as security lights and strong locks can help lower your home insurance premiums significantly, a leading industry body has said.

Kelly Ostler, spokesperson for the Association of British Insurers (ABI), says that having gravel pathways and secure perimeters is also a good idea.

"Things like security are very important, so making sure that you've got secure locks and that your windows are securely locked," she commented.

"You can use things like security lights. Having gravel pathways can help because they make a noise so you can hear intruders. Keeping your perimeters secure, so if you've got a garden gate, keeping it locked. Security lights combined with gravel tends to be quite good."

The Home Office's crime reduction website states that "most burglaries are carried out by opportunist thieves".

"In two out of ten burglaries, they don't even have to use force - they get in through an open door or window," it adds.

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