Businesses in Bristol are the second most likely in the country to be hit by crime, according to a new study.

Statistics released by insurance firm AXA show the city figures highly when it comes to businesses being most at risk of thefts, criminal damage, arson and malicious damage.

The Business Crime Index shows for the first half of the year, only Halifax had more crimes against businesses. The index looks at the levels of crimes against businesses, based on claims received by AXA.

Doug Barnett, head of customer risk management at AXA, said: "Crime against business is a serious issue and this year we are concerned that the continuing recession could prompt a rise around the Christmas period.

"We would urge all businesses to work with local communities and police to protect themselves as well as taking sensible precautions, not least making sure they are properly insured should the worst happen."

Top tips for businesses include making sure alarms and other security equipment is in good working order, particularly when premises are being closed over Christmas. Owners should also remove cash from tills during the day and place takings within a safe.

Avon and Somerset police spokesman Simon Whitby said: "Avon and Somerset police has not been contacted by AXA about their findings, how the research was conducted and how many people in the ASC force area were interviewed, which would obviously put their survey into context. Without knowing any information about the way AXA carry out their business it is difficult to ascertain what can be learned from these statistics.

"Avon and Somerset police is committed to cutting crime and in its three key priority areas – domestic burglary, robbery and theft of motor vehicles – and there have been reductions during the past 12 months."