Research released by Confused.com Home Insurance has found that 72% of Brits feel more at risk of burglaries at Christmas, yet only one in four increase home security during this expensive time of year. Research shows a 63% increase in burglaries during the winter months at an average cost of £2,623*.

Generous Brits are expected to spend an average of £250 on presents this Christmas and, according to research, the most likely hiding place for all these presents is under the bed (34%). However, with more luxury gifts, food and drink in the house than at any other time of the year, the average home very quickly becomes a tempting place for opportunistic burglars.

To help homeowners be security savvy this Christmas, Confused.com Home Insurance have enlisted ex-burglar and home security expert Michael Fraser to offer tips and advice on how to keep your home safe.

Michael Fraser’s top ten tips to avoid break ins:

1. Don't leave door keys in obvious hiding places such as underneath a pot or a mat or dangling in the letterbox. Thieves know all the tricks

2. Keep hedges at the front of the property low – don’t give the burglar the cover he requires

3. Paint drainpipes with anti-climb paint and install motion sensitive security lighting around the exterior of the property

4. Fit a brightly coloured burglar alarm and place high up and prominently to the exterior of your house

5. Always lock up tools and garden furniture that will help a burglar break in

6. Always shred confidential paperwork before disposing of it

7. Take dated photographs of your rooms so that in case you are the victim of a burglary, you can provide photographic evidence of your contents

8. Keep suitcases in your loft or attic as these can be used to carry valuables away

9. Make sure your presents and receipts aren’t visible from outside and don’t keep the presents all in one place – make it difficult for the burglar

10. Make sure you have a good insurance policy to protect yourself if the worst does happen

Michael Fraser comments, “There are simple measures homeowners can take to minimise the risk of burglaries. For instance, the research revealed that the living room is the most valuable room in their house (49% of Brits cited in the survey); it’s also a popular target for burglars. So I would advise people not to put presents under the Christmas tree until the last possible moment and closing the curtains can also help. Think carefully about where you place your valuables, make sure that they are secure and your home insurance covers you for any losses should the worst happen.”

Gareth Kloet, Darren Black, Head of Home Insurance for Confused.com says, “It may sound basic but simple steps taken to protect your home could save you money and possible heartbreak at Christmas. Homeowners should be aware each home insurance provider has their own set of conditions, so make sure your items are valued correctly to avoid any unhappy faces on Christmas Day.”

For tips on home security during the festive period and advice on the right home insurance, visit www.confused.com/home-insurance.