As summer approaches and families start planning their vacations, it’s important to remember that burglars are also eagerly awaiting this time of year. According to a recent study conducted by 247 Blinds on home security measures and burglaries, the month of August sees a significant increase in break-in incidents. With many homeowners away on holiday, it’s natural to worry about the safety of our homes.
The study revealed that 42% of UK residents are more concerned about burglaries in 2023 than in previous years. Of course, the last thing you want to think about while sunbathing on the beach is home security. That’s why 247 Blinds has partnered with Simplisafe, home security specialists, to provide some helpful tips on how to avoid break-ins and enjoy a worry-free vacation.
First and foremost, it’s crucial not to broadcast your holiday plans on social media. Jonathan Wall, UK general manager at Simplisafe, advises against sharing your absence from home online and recommends keeping valuable items out of sight from windows.
Another useful tip is to request the Post Office’s Keepsafe service. This ensures that any mail you receive during your time away is held securely, preventing a buildup of letters that could signal your absence to potential burglars. With fraud and identity theft becoming increasingly prevalent, it’s essential to safeguard confidential letters from falling into the wrong hands.
Locking all windows and doors properly may seem like an obvious step, but it’s easy to overlook in the rush of leaving for a trip. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of double-checking all entrances to your home, especially in areas with higher burglary rates. This is particularly crucial for student-heavy areas where valuable items like laptops may be tempting targets for thieves.
Investing in home security gadgets can also act as a strong deterrent. Jonathan suggests installing a bell box, an outdoor siren, which signals the presence of a burglar alarm inside your home. Some alarms are even connected to professional monitoring centers that can request police response. Video doorbells are another effective option, providing both a visible deterrent and the ability to capture crucial evidence for law enforcement. Combining outdoor security cameras with hidden ones can further enhance the security of your property.
Lastly, Helen O’Connor, product manager at 247 Blinds, recommends installing motorized blinds as a cost-effective home security measure. These blinds can create the illusion that someone is home even when you’re away, making your property less appealing to potential burglars. Motorized blinds are operated by a small motorized unit that controls the opening and closing of the blinds. They consume minimal power and resemble regular roller blinds, making it difficult for anyone to tell they are electric. Additionally, they can be set on a timer for added convenience.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your summer vacation with peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken steps to protect your home.