Thames Valley Police are targeting shoppers in a new force-wide campaign today to beat burglars.

From today to Friday, crime reduction advisors, police community support officers and volunteers will be at major shopping centres to warn the public of the increased risks of burglary once the clocks go back on October 26.

Crime reduction advisor John McNicholas said: “At this time of year burglars will be looking to take advantage of the darker evenings.

"Householders need to think about what sort of impression an opportunist burglar will have of their home. Taking some simple and inexpensive steps to make your home look lived in will dramatically reduce the chance of you becoming a victim.”

The new force-wide campaign “Look, Lights, Lock” includes home safety messages and tips on how to safeguard your home from burglary throughout the year.

In 2007, there was a 23.5 per cent increase overall in home burglaries across the Thames Valley during the months of shorter daylight.

Crime reduction advisor Malcolm Wills said: "Make sure your house is never left in darkness. Use timer switches to make sure you have lighting coming on (maybe even a radio as well) when it gets dark. A burglar will look for houses in darkness, make sure you’re not one of their victims.”

The campaign is set to launch today in High Wycombe and finish at the Westgate Centre, Oxford, on Friday.