Make sure you don’t give burglars a break
WITH THE EVENINGS GETTING DARKER, EXPERTS SAY IT’S VITAL HOMEOWNERS MAKE LIFE DIFFICULT FOR INTRUDERS
ACCORDING to data from insurance giant Aviva, theft claims increased by 10% during October and November 2019, compared to the monthly average between January and September that year.
Adam Pawson, head of digital at Safestyle UK windows and doors, says: “You can’t put a price on sentimental items. Treasured possessions, such as vintage jewellery and our beloved family pets, are impossible to replace, so we need to think carefully about how we look after these things to keep them safe.”
When it comes to keeping our homes and possessions safe, a proactive approach is best.
Luckily, there are some simple things we can all do to deter burglars.
Check your windows and doors
A typical oversight, given our hectic lives, is leaving doors and windows unlocked.
“When you move from one part of the house, say from the back rooms to the front, be vigilant and remember to secure that part of the property,” says Adam. “Older window frames and single glazing can also be a security risk – so it might be worth considering replacement windows for an extra layer of security.”
Lock away treasures
Investing in a safe is a good idea if you have small, vintage items that could never be replaced, such as old family photographs or trinkets passed down from generations. Not only will it keep them secure in your home, but it also ensures everything’s together so
you don’t accidentally misplace them during a clearout.
Invest in smart tech
Smart devices add an extra element of security. Smart blinds are a good idea if you’re not always home. Easily controlled by a smartphone app, you can manage your blinds from wherever you are, or set them to lower as the sun goes down and rise up as the morning light streams in, making it look like someone’s in even when the house is empty.
The latest smart security cameras can be viewed from anywhere on a smartphone, tablet or computer and include features such as motion-triggered recording and infrared night vision.
Install decent outdoor lighting
Good lighting around your home helps ensure that if anyone does decide to trespass on your property your family and neighbours are more likely to be aware of it.
Burglars will target homes with little security and protection as they want to be in and out quickly and make it as easy as possible for themselves without getting caught.
Having a light outside that activates when it senses movement will draw attention to anyone that is trying to get into your home and make them think twice about targeting the property.
Do not leave or keep any tools or equipment outside
Most burglars will use whatever they can find on a property to break into it. You also want to make it difficult for them to conceal themselves when trying to break into your property so also avoid having tall shrubs and trees around your windows that could hide a potential intruder.
For more information on security visit safestyle-windows.co.uk/ ask-an-expert/home-security/