The shorter evenings are linked to an increase in attempted burglaries.
Midlands gardaí are warning people to secure their homes as we enter the dark, winter evenings.
The Westmeath Crime Prevention Officer says it's important to close and lock all doors and windows, as figures show 35 percent of burglars access houses through the front door.
There are many ways of protecting your house - including installing sensory lighting and reducing the height of garden shrubs so people can't see into the property.
Sergeant John McWalter says it only takes a minute for burglars to take items:
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