This is when you are most likely to be robbed

A study of national statistics has shown the most likely time home burglars will strike, and it is a stark reminder that we need to be extra vigilant right now.

Budget Direct Insurance has released a paper showing that most robberies in Australia occur at 5pm on a Friday afternoon in October.

Lockwood’s National security expert, Bruce Chisholm, told The Daily Mail that the approach of summer meant people were more relaxed and also more likely to leave their home vulnerable, two factors robbers were only too happy to exploit.

“Just because the evenings are lighter, doesn’t mean that there aren’t opportunists out there willing to take a chance…even without the cover of darkness,” he said.

With more than 200,000 break-ins in Australia each year, Budget Direct Insurance has offered this advice for protecting your home and belongings.

Firstly, a secure front-yard is essential. This includes locked fly-screen on the front door and that side-gates are not left open, so as to not entice burglars.

The paper also said that a trimmed and tidy yard instead of one that is overgrown or dense provides fewer hiding places. This also means neighbours’ can keep an eye on each others’ property.

Deadlocks are another must for all entry doors and windows. Other locks are simply too easy to pick. Nearly half of the burglaries in the state of Victoria (46 per cent) showed no signs of forced entry.

Don’t hide keys in obvious places such as under the doormat or behind a flowerpot; and of course, don’t tell the world you’re away on a six week cruise by posting photos to Facebook or checking in via social media at hotels, etc.

The paper included research that showed the biggest deterrents for thieves, they were the presence of a noisy dog (61 per cent) and a functioning alarm system (49 per cent).

Convicted thieves told researchers they were attracted to houses with no cars in the driveway, with the lights turned off at night-time and overflowing mail and rubbish signalling the occupants were away.

Have you ever been the victim of a home burglary? How can your experience help others protect themselves?