AS THE darker nights get closer police in the Scottish Borders are focusing on quad bike and all-terrain vehicle security.

Officers have taken to social media to recommend the following tips to protect your property.

Never leave your keys in the ignition, even if you only briefly leave your ATV/Quad bike unattended.

Try to keep the vehicles out of sight from nearby roads, thieves will often survey properties looking for vehicles

Keep gates to yards closed. Lock barn or garage doors at night using a heavy-duty padlock, hasp & staple or chain.

A Quad/ATV drive on security device which clamps around the wheel and is secured to a concrete floor is a great solution.

Fit Immobilisation and Tracking Systems. Tracking systems can notify the owner the Quad/ATV is being interfered with or moved. Many systems are battery operated and activate once the Quad/ATV is stolen and track via GPS and other systems.

Fit outside security lights controlled by an automatic time-switch or infra-red beams that react to heat or movement.

If the outbuilding or barn is remote with no mains power, consider using a battery-operated GSM mobile alert system and camera which can alert you to anything suspicious.

Record serial numbers, chassis and model numbers and take note of any custom marks on the vehicle. Take colour photographs from several angles and take videos with a smartphone if possible.

Security marking your vehicle with a forensic asset marking is a highly effective, visible deterrent to thieves and an established method of reducing theft.

Look out for the SBD mark when purchasing crime prevention equipment.