If you are lucky enough to have a garage, it’s obviously the safe and smart choice in where to store your car. But just because your vehicle is out of sight doesn’t mean it’s out of a thief’s mind. The locks on up-and-over doors are notoriously weak, and won’t prove much of a barrier to a determined criminal.

What’s more, garages aren’t only used for cars. Although a lock-up is often regarded as a junkyard, for many motorists it’s a valuable space in which to keep everything from tools and power washers to bigger items such as bicycles, quad bikes and electrical goods.

So it definitely pays to make garage security a priority. And the first thing to do is note down any serial numbers on relevant property. A few digital snaps, even if they are only on your phone, will help in the event of a break-in. Also, when putting your car away for the night, be sure to lock and alarm it, otherwise your insurer may not pay up if it’s stolen.

The cost of motion detectors has dropped dramatically in recent years. With DIY wireless security systems at pocket money prices it's worth thinking about security for your garage. Having a professional supply and install a wireless motion sensor system in your garage ensures that it is going to work when you need it. Although wireless camera systems are available, to purchase a worthwhile system is out of reach of most households. A simple, well placed motion sensor system is far more reliable, a sufficient deterrent and available at a more reasonable price.

A well installed security system for your garage will pay for itself over a few years in cheaper insurance premiums. Not to mention saving you the hassle and excess if your security system stops your car being stolen.

Ensure that your garage is in all round good shape, windows, doors and frames all need to be checked occasionally for damage. Checking the state of your garage from the outside can let you know where there may be hole in your security. If you have had an automatic garage door opener for a while it may be worth considering updating it. Many older models become obsolete as thieves develop ways around the technology. Newer automatic openers use coded signals which are far more secure and resistant to 'spoofing'.

There’s no point advertising what’s worth stealing, so consider who’s wandering around the area before you flip open the door. And don’t leave it gaping wide for long periods – apart from the obvious risk of casual opportunist theft, it gives a clued-up burglar plenty of time to see if returning for a more detailed examination is worth their while.

You should take a three-stage approach to security. First, use deterrents, such as automatic lighting. Then make life hard for criminals with strong locks and bolts. Finally, fit alarms to alert you and your neighbours should someone actually break in.