As the author suggests, a major step to prevent theft ----.

Although I am a police officer, I certainly don't
believe that crime control is entirely the
responsibility of the police force. All of us must
work together to prevent crime. Not giving criminals
the opportunity is the first step. Make your houses
burglar-proof by always locking up and installing an
alarm system. Make sure your garden and drive
are lit up at night and report any suspicious
behaviour immediately. The more unattractive you
make your house to burglars, the less likely it is
that a crime will take place. The police are here to
help you, but you have to help the police as well.