Even though the number of domestic burglaries is falling, people are still being advised how not to make their home an easy target for thieves.

New figures suggest that there are 39 per cent less break-ins than in 1997, but that some people are more at risk, especially those living in private student accommodation.

Insurance company Legal & General are hoping that giving some advice on how to protect property will help crime rates fall even further. Simply double-checking that all external doors and windows are fitted with locks and closed could help deter a potential thief.

In addition, being a member of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme and ensuring that outside lighting is working correctly, could make homes less of a target and if the worst should happen, having a valid insurance policy can also help lesson the impact of being robbed.

"Today’s students have more high value consumer goods per head than the rest of the population," said Garry Skelton, marketing director at Legal & General Insurance.

"Research states 65 per cent own a computer or laptop, 86 per cent. So it is worth checking what insurance cover is in place, that it is at an adequate level and whether there are any limits on high risk items, such as computers."