ESSEX Police has issued advice to people in Uttlesford who are travelling away for Easter to help them protect their homes. 1) Leave a light or lamp on a timer switch in a living area (not just the hall) to come on in the evening. A light on an additional

ESSEX Police has issued advice to people in Uttlesford who are travelling away for Easter to help them protect their homes.

1) Leave a light or lamp on a timer switch in a living area (not just the hall) to come on in the evening. A light on an additional timer in a bedroom or study during the evening is recommended.

2) Leave your curtains open.

3) Leave a radio on a timer somewhere in the house.

4) Ensure you have cancelled your milk and papers.

5) Ask your neighbours to move your post if it is visible through your letterbox or door.

4) If you are leaving a car behind, ideally park it in your garage. If this is not possible, reverse your car up to your garage so that the garage door cannot be opened.

5) Check that garages, sheds and other outhouses are adequately locked up and put keys out of view, even inside your house.

6) If you see anyone acting suspiciously, please dial 999 and report the behaviour to Essex Police immediately.

7) Ensure that UVPC windows and doors are double locked.

8) If you would like further advice on securing your home, please contact the Uttlesford's crime reduction officer Peter Caulfield on 0300 333 4444.