POLICE are urging people to take simple steps to avoid becoming victims of crime as the clocks go back this weekend.

Crime reduction advisors at Thames Valley Police are urging people to be prepared for darker evenings and have issued some tips to think about at this time of year including:

Trimming overgrown trees and hedges that obscure lighting or might hide a burglar from your neighbours or passers by.

If you are going to be out all day set indoor lamps on timer switches to come on at dusk to give the impression someone is at home.

Postcode your electrical goods, such as DVD players and computers, with an ultra violet pen or permanent marker, and make an inventory of these items including brand names and serial numbers. UV pens can be obtained from crime reduction advisors. You can also register all mobile equipment such as cameras and iPods on the national database http://menduk.org

The police have access to this database allowing stolen items to be returned to their owners.

Consider joining or starting up a neighbourhood watch scheme in your road (contact your local Neighbourhood Watch Office via 0845 8 505 505 for more details).

Ensure all your external windows and locks are secure, and fit additional locks where necessary.

Consider motion sensor lighting by doors outside.

If you would like specific crime prevention advise you can contact your local Crime Reduction Office via 0845 8 505 505, or log on to the Thames Valley Police website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk

Source: Witney Gazette