As the school summer holidays approach, families are eagerly anticipating their time away. However, burglars are also looking forward to the next couple of months for different reasons. According to a recent study by 247 Blinds on home security measures and burglaries, the month of August has been recorded as one of the highest for break-in incidents. With many homeowners away on vacation, this time of year can be a cause for concern.
The research reveals that 42% of UK residents are more worried about being burgled in 2023 than in previous years. Of course, home security is the last thing you want to think about while you’re sunbathing on the beach. In light of this, 247 Blinds has teamed up with home security specialists Simplisafe to share some tips on how to avoid break-ins and relax while you’re away.
One important tip is to avoid broadcasting 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 view from windows.
Another helpful suggestion is to set up a Keepsafe at the post office. Jonathan suggests asking the Post Office to hold any mail you receive during your time away. This prevents a build-up of letters that burglars could use as an indicator that you’re not home. It also provides an added layer of security by keeping your post in a safe space.
Locking all windows and doors properly is another crucial step in preventing break-ins. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of ensuring all entrances to your home are securely locked before going to bed or leaving the house. This is particularly important in areas with higher levels of incidents, such as student-heavy areas where thieves may target those who have forgotten to lock up.
Investing in home security gadgets can also be a great deterrent. Jonathan recommends installing a bell box, an outdoor siren, which signals the presence of a burglar alarm inside the home. Video doorbells are also effective in deterring criminals and capturing evidence for the police. Additionally, placing outdoor security cameras alongside covert ones can provide even more deterrence and ensure footage is captured in case the visible cameras are targeted.
In addition to these measures, Helen O’Connor, product manager at 247 Blinds, suggests installing motorised blinds. These blinds can create the illusion that someone is home even when you’re away, making your property a less attractive target for potential burglars. Motorised blinds are operated by a small, efficient motor that opens and closes the blinds on a timer. They look just like regular roller blinds, making it difficult for anyone to tell they are electric.
By following these tips and taking necessary precautions, families can enjoy their summer holidays with peace of mind, knowing that their homes are secure.