Home Security Tips to Make Sure You Have a Happy Christmas
As the dark, cold nights draw in, it can create a point of opportunity for criminals. Burglaries are reported to increase once the clocks go back in October, as we tend to be spending more time out of the house at Christmas parties, shopping or still at work.
Every home is the owner’s castle and to safeguard your property and to protect your home, here are a few tips to avoid the call to the insurers:
Your house lights are a powerful tool to avoid any would be home invader lurking in the shadows. If you are visiting friends and family over the festive period, use a timer. It is advisable to use a timer in the main room of the house, for example, the living room and if budget permits, also use one in the kitchen and/or one of the main bedrooms to make it look like there is someone in.
Outside of the home, use sensor lights where possible. These detect movement near their sensors and will avoid anyone who may be loitering. Plus who wants to stand by the front door, searching for their keys in the dark?
Any burglar will try and find a weak point to gain access to your home. A lock that is easy to pick open is a massive advantage in their eyes. A thief can wriggle into a space that is larger than their head – to avoid this, ensure all windows, especially downstairs have locks and fit restrictors.
Make sure your doors are securely locked at all times, even when you are home and get into the routine of double checking them and your windows before the end of the night. Safeguard your home further by installing doors with multi-locking systems and toughened glass. If you have UPVC door, ensure they are double locked.
It is important to make sure you do not make it easy for any would-be burglar. If they are unable to make it into your home, they can still try to take your valuables, car keys and ID. Do not leave such items near windows, doors or especially your letterbox. Installing a letterbox cage will prevent a burglar from ‘fishing’ for your keys. Do not hide the spare set of keys under the front door mat or in a flowerpot – to the eyes of a burglar, it is a VIP invite into your home. If an item is worth something, a thief will try to make off with it. If an item can be used as a tool, a thief will use it. Your own power tools could end up being used to steal your car.
It may sound obvious, but never leave your garage door and shed unlocked. Secure tools in your shed and garage, don’t leave them lying around as a potential burglar will use them against your home to gain access.
Check for any weak points in your fence line. If you have a side entrance, place a tall, strong gate to avoid easy access down the side passage.
Smart locks on your front door are helpful as well – with them, you can manage who has access into your home and receive notifications when your front door is opened. They also completely eliminate the need for a physical key, as most of the time your smartphone will be enough to give you entry.
This video by Anglian Home Improvements gives us insight into the mindset of a reformed burglar. In the video, ex-burglar Richard Taylor visits three properties and describes how another burglar might gain access and what would deter them.
For more information on how Anglian Home Improvements can help you keep your home safe and sound, check out the advanced features their windows and doors offer.
