"Lies, damned lies and statistics" is part of a phrase attributed to the 19th-century British prime minister Benjamin Disraeli, amongst others, also later popularised in the US by Mark Twain – who stated that there are three types of lies: lies, damned lies and statistics.

The statement refers to the persuasive powers of numbers, the use of statistics to bolster weak arguments, and the tendency of people to disparage statistics that do not support their position.

In my job, we regularly rely on information and statistics – compiled by researchers within the police service – to give us the 'heads up' on crime trends and patterns.

Where applicable and necessary, we use this information to inform the residents about certain types of offences associated with these trends. Some of it isn't rocket science and can be worked out without the aid of others. For instance, with the darker evenings fast approaching, it stands to reason that an empty house with its curtains left undrawn or a light not left on indicates that the occupant probably isn't at home – also an easy assumption for a burglar to make.

But within my role, we sometimes have to look at the bigger picture and process data that can assist us in planning further ahead.

Let me give you an example. By compiling and collecting data over a period from October and December 2004-2008, I am able to say that on the Bristol East district there are two potential hotspots, where in the past the offence of burglary has been more prevalent.

As being forewarned is forearmed, I will tell you these areas include the Fishponds Road area, in and around Marlborough Street, and Ridgeway Road and the Summerhill Road area of St George an surrounding streets.

The average times these offences are occurring is between 3pm to 7am, and although there is an average spread on the days these type of offences occur, it is on Saturdays where there is a slight peak.

While this is all interesting stuff, it is useless if we do no act upon it. Without revealing police operational matters, things are in place to address these trends, but we all have a part to play in reducing crime.

With burglary in particular, leave a light or radio on when you're out, set your burglar alarm every time you leave – even if you're only out for a few minutes. If you require more information in relation to crime statistics in your area, go to the Avon and Somerset website and click 'In Your Area'. As I've already stated, being forewarned is forearmed.