More than 300 burglaries are expected to be reported tonight with an estimated £900,000 worth of valuables stolen today alone, according to Churchill Home Insurance.

Analysis of home insurance claims over the past three years reveals that this spike in crime coincides with the clocks going back, as burglaries increase by a third (34%) during the darker months.

November sees about eight hours and 37 minutes of sunlight every day, nearly two hours less than October (10 hrs 32 mins).

About 37 million (70%) adults believe that their home is at greater risk of burglary during the darker months, with more than three quarters (76% or 15.8 million people) of people aged over 55 feeling the most at risk. This compares to 65% of those aged 18 to 34 (9.5 million) and 68% (11.7 million) of those aged 35 to 54.

But despite people feeling that they are at more risk of burglary during winter, many are unwilling to make changes to their properties to better protect themselves.

Nearly half (49%) of Brits aren’t planning to install additional locks on windows and doors, while 54% of Brits wouldn’t install smart security systems such as a ‘Ring’ doorbell to protect their home from burglary.

Sarah Khan, head of Churchill home insurance said: “This analysis highlights a worrying trend in burglaries as the nights get longer, so we really encourage people to take extra care, especially around the 12th November. The clocks going back gives burglars plenty of opportunities to operate under the cover of darkness.

“However, there are small steps you can take to reduce the chance of a burglar targeting your property, including installing security lights, a home alarm system or a smart doorbell so you can keep an eye on your home even when you are out and about. It’s also important to have a comprehensive, up-to-date insurance policy that covers householders in the event of them becoming a victim of burglary.”

How to protect your home against burglary

* If you have a security alarm, use it. Burglars can tell if the alarm is not used and serviced regularly so it won’t act as a deterrent unless it is used.

* As well as installing security measures like cameras and alarms, ensure other items that may be used by burglars for breaking and entering, such as ladders or hammers, are locked away and out of sight.

* If you are away, don’t make it obvious that no one is home. Ask family, friends, or neighbours to pop round, leave a light on, or invest in timed lights.

* Think like a burglar and see where the best points of entry to your home are and prevent anything happening. Make sure all windows and doors are locked.

* Try not to leave packaging for new expensive goods outside your home – take it to a public recycling bin instead.