An officer attends the scene of a break-in and writes a crime report including as much information as possible on how the thief got in and what was stolen.

A detailed list of the missing property is needed including the serial and model numbers from electrical goods, and any other distinctive markings by the manufacturer or personal identifying marks such as postcodes that have been applied.

The crime report then becomes part of local and national crime statistics, helping police build a better picture of crime in the area and form new crime-fighting policies.

As part of the initial enquiries at the scene, the officer calls door-to-door to ask neighbours if they saw anything suspicious. All officers can give basic crime prevention advice and will point out to the victim if there is any security weakness which needs prompt attention. Police also make the immediate neighbours aware that a property nearby has been burgled so that, if necessary, they too can take preventative steps.

A crime scene investigation officer attends to hunt for fingerprints and other tell-tale marks of an offender's presence. Victims may be asked to provide their own fingerprints for elimination against any unaccountable or suspicious marks that are found.

A break-in can be investigated by a CID or uniformed officer. The information from the crime report is analysed locally on computer and any emerging criminal trends or patterns of behaviour are assessed to help devise the appropriate police response.

Special operations are often drawn up to target a specific problem, area or type of break-in.

Photographs and descriptions of stolen and recovered antiques are stored on computer and similar systems in other forces around the country can be searched at the touch of a button. Specially-trained officers liaise with the antiques trade and regularly hunt through markets, fairs and auctions for stolen valuables in a bid to reunite them with the rightful owner.

As a house break-in can be a traumatic experience, the police will refer burglary victims, if they wish, to victim support. The Victim Support scheme is a charity with volunteers providing free counselling to people affected by serious crime. Representatives are spread throughout the Avon and Somerset Constabulary area.

High-value or unusual burglaries are considered for media coverage and property that police recover is often put on show to help trace the owner. Look out for dates and times of property displays in the local media.

Officers will keep the householder informed as an inquiry progresses and will let them know if someone is charged and the crime is cleared up. However, if a crime is not solved, the file is always kept open in case new information comes to light. A crime can be solved many months or even years later by people serving prison sentences or by suspects who admit other additional offences.

Insurance

Are you fully insured? Insurance will relieve you of the financial worry of replacing stolen goods and many insurance companies offer reduced premiums for people with good home security. Ask the company if it has a list of recommended alarm installers in your area.

Fire Safety

With all the security, consideration must be given to the risk of fire and the means of escape. Fit a smoke detector - a minimum of one per floor. These alarms now cost less than £5. Treat it to a new battery every year to ensure that it is in full working order and test it at the beginning of every month.