This is the day of the week your home is most likely to get burgled - and how to protect yourself

New YouGov research conducted on behalf of Co-op Insurance shows that November is the month when thieves are most likely to strike.

A poll of 4,000 UK adults found that the number of theft claims increased by more than a third in the last two months of the year, with November being when most burglaries are carried out.

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The data also revealed that burglars seemed to choose Fridays to commit crimes more often than other days of the week.

Home theft hotspots

A total of 41 per cent of Brits have been the victim of burglary, according to the research.

People living in London were the most likely to be victims of break-ins, followed by Carlisle and Manchester.

The top 20 home theft hotspots in the UK are:LondonCarlisleManchesterSalisburyChelmsfordSloughBoltonTwickenhamHalifaxDartfordBirminghamWatfordOldhamWiganBradfordWolverhamptonLancasterCroydonCambridgeNorthampton

Methods of breaking and entering

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When it comes to how burglars are breaking and entering, a third broke down a door, almost a quarter smashed a window and a tenth gained access via a door or window which was accidentally left open, the research suggested.

Colin Butler, Head of Insurance at Co-op Insurance said, “Unfortunately, year on year, our claims data shows that darker nights lead to more burglaries.

“As the nights draw in, we’re urging people to be vigilant when it comes to their personal safety, as well as the safety of their home.”

Tips to keep your home safe from burglars this winter

Leave a light on when out or invest in a light timerInstall exterior security lights at the front and back of the propertyIf possible, invest in a CCTV systemDon’t post locations on social media sitesEnsure doors and windows are lockedSet burglar alarmsEnsure outbuildings/sheds are securedDon’t leave valuables on displayNever leave car keys within easy reach of a letterboxDon’t leave ladders outside your home

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