Home Security Checklist: Are You a Target for Criminals?

22nd January 2020

Did you know a burglar can break into a home in five minutes?

According to recent statistics, over 200,000 break-ins are recorded in the UK each year.

December and January see properties most at risk. Theft peaks during these months.

Regardless of where you live, home security remains crucial.

Protect your home from becoming a target with this checklist.

Home Security Cameras and Alarm for Property Surveillance

Security cameras and a functioning alarm system are the most common methods to deter thieves.

However, many people with home alarms don’t activate them.

Ensure cameras are operational, with alarms connected to local police for rapid response or set up alerts to your mobile. Even if you’re away for just 15 minutes, ensure alarm systems are on.

Effective security systems deter break-ins by 49.1%.

For best results, keep cameras visible but unreachable to monitor entryways.

Tip: The New Year is an ideal period to review who knows your alarm code. Track who has access for increased security.

Lights and Landscaping

Security lighting and smart landscaping enhance home security.

Install motion-activated lights near garages and entrances. Sensor lights and indoor lighting indicate activity to deter burglars. If you're away, use smart plugs to control lighting via a mobile app or set them on timers with varied schedules.

Maintain gardens to eliminate hiding spots, showing thieves the property is regularly occupied.

Cleared areas and trimmed trees also enhance visibility, enabling others to inform police of burglary attempts.

Utilize smart landscaping, such as low thorny shrubs and rose bushes near windows and entry points to discourage intruders from climbing and breaking in.

Secure Doors and Windows

UK weather may complicate keeping doors and windows secure.

Yet two-thirds of active burglars report entering homes through open doors and windows, so it's wise to enhance your defences.

Utilise security doors with a British Standard triple locking system. Consider electronic smart locks for added safety and add security mesh to windows and doors. Install a peephole in your main entry and rear doors or set up a doorbell camera.

Tip: Inspect your home (inside and outside) for broken windows and faulty door locks. Neglected entry points are easily forgotten. Check for tears and gaps in security screens and fences. Don’t overlook garage and shed locks.

Be Smart about Parcels

More Brits are online shopping, increasing parcel theft directly from outside homes.

Avoid this by using package tracking and setting up email/phone alerts. Use post office lockers or specify delivery instructions, so packages aren't left in plain sight for long. Alternatively, if nobody's home, use your work address for delivery.

Don’t Attempt to Fool Criminals

Although crime rates have decreased over the last decade, burglars have become smarter.

Fake security cameras, predictable hiding spots for valuables (like in bedroom drawers), ‘beware of dog’ signs with no dog, and minimal security because it feels unnecessary create vulnerability.

Ready to enhance your home’s security? Contact our staff for the right security products or follow our blog for the latest security tips.

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