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New crime statistics show that the number of domestic burglaries rose by four per cent from October-December 2008 compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase in burglaries is widely blamed on the recession.

With the credit crunch showing no signs of dispersing, home insurance has taken on added significance as it can provide vital peace of mind that your home contents can be replaced if a theft occurs.

Having adequate home insurance can ease the burden of a difficult situation but what steps should you follow if a burglary takes place? Here is a quick guide.

1. Call the police – Make sure you contact the police as quickly as possible and do not enter a property if you suspect a burglar is still inside.

2. Don’t touch – Don’t touch anything in your home until the police have arrived as forensic evidence may be needed.

3. Itemise your property – Go through each room step by step and itemise what has been stolen so you can pass these details on to both the insurer and the police. Make sure you inform the police of any notable marks or security numbers on any of the property.

4. Let your bank know – Make sure you have any credit cards or debit cards that may have been stolen inactivated as soon as possible.

5. Get a crime report number – The police should provide a unique reference number which you will be required to pass on to an insurer.

6. Contact your insurer – Get in touch with a home insurer as soon as possible and fill out its claims form. Take photographs that may support your claim and keep receipts and damaged items in case they need to be assessed by a loss adjustor.

7. Secure your home – Make sure your home is secured and that any damage to doors and windows is repaired.

Remember that you can earn cheap home insurance if you install security devices in your home. Most home insurance providers offer discounts for technology such as burglar alarms, time-switch lights and security cameras. Joining a Neighbourhood Watch scheme could also help you save.