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 people away on vacation, this time of year can be a concern for homeowners.
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 enjoying the beach.
To address these concerns, 247 Blinds has partnered with home security specialists Simplisafe to share some tips on how to avoid break-ins and relax while you’re away.
Firstly, it’s important 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 view from windows.
Another useful tip 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 could indicate your absence to potential burglars. It also adds an extra layer of security by keeping your post in a safe space.
Locking all windows and doors properly is another crucial step. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of ensuring all entrances to your home are securely locked before going to bed or leaving the house. This is especially vital in areas with higher levels of break-ins, such as student-heavy neighborhoods 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. Some alarms are connected to professional monitoring centers, allowing for a police response if necessary. Video doorbells are also effective in deterring criminals and capturing evidence for the police. Additionally, placing both visible and hidden outdoor security cameras can further enhance the security of your property.
Lastly, Helen O’Connor, product manager at 247 Blinds, suggests installing motorized blinds as a smart and cost-effective alternative to other home security measures. These blinds can create the illusion that someone is home even when you’re away, making your property less attractive to potential burglars. Motorized blinds are operated by a small motorized unit that controls the opening and closing of the blinds. They are energy-efficient and look like regular roller blinds, making it difficult for anyone to tell they are electric.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your summer vacation with peace of mind, knowing that you have taken steps to protect your home from potential break-ins.