Winter Home Security Tips
Making your home unappealing to a burglar is the key to preventing it from being burgled during the winter period and is one of the most effective forms of crime prevention.
Darker and colder nights can mean ‘easy pickings’ for criminals, with an increase in burglaries during the winter months.
Typically the number of break-ins across the UK increases when it gets darker earlier (a burglary occurs every two minutes in the month of November).
Although the risk of burglary does differ according to the type of property and level of security that is already in place it is worth taking the necessary precautions in order to best protect yourself and your home from a break-in.
Simple preventions can be taken to ensure your home stays secure this winter:
Make sure all doors are securely locked at all times.
If you are not going to be home leave a light on or on a timer to give the illusion that your home is occupied. A TV or Radio is a good alternative to leaving a light on.
Make sure all accessible windows are locked and have restrictors fitted for added security. Intruders can wiggle through any gap that is larger than a human head.
Lock all garages and sheds.
Check the perimeter of your home for weak spots.
Have motion sensing lights fitted to the outside of your home.
Keep your curtains or blinds closed at night.
Don’t leave any valuables where they can be seen by passersby on the street.
Don’t share any holiday plans on Social Media.
If you are going on a winter break leave a spare key with a trusted neighbour or relative so they can keep an eye on your home whilst you’re away.
Have a burglar alarm fitted. Some alarm systems can end up costing as much as £2000, if this is something you can’t afford have a dummy alarm fitted for as little as £14.99 a fraction of the price but equally as effective in deterring a burglar.