Kent Police is sharing tips to avoid Halloween crimes after a man was arrested in Old Kent Road in connection with two burglaries.

At about 6.30pm on Saturday October 28 police received a report that electrics including a smartphone, laptop and DVD player had allegedly been stolen from a home in Station Road, Otford, within the past 30 minutes.

Officers investigated and whilst there received a report that another property in the same road had also been targeted, with electrical items and jewellery reported to have been taken.

Officers identified John Anthony Taylor, 52 and no fixed address, as a suspect.

He was arrested in Old Kent Road at 9.04pm that night and has since been charged with two counts of burglary.

Police are now sharing tips on how to avoid becoming the victim of similar crimes over festive periods such as Halloween where crime typically increases.

The following advice can help deter offenders:

- Keep keys, cash and expensive items out of view;

- Use timer switches on lights and radios to make your home look occupied;

- Keep gates locked and boundaries secure;

- Lock away bikes, tools and garden items that could be stolen or used to break into your home.

You can also:

- Security-mark items including bicycles, smartphones and laptops;

- Keep receipts and serial numbers safe;

- Photograph and insure expensive or unique items;

- Install a safe, bolted to the ground or a wall, or use a safety deposit box at the bank.

Taylor was remanded in custody to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday, October 30.