As the school summer holidays approach, families are eagerly anticipating their time away. However, it’s important to note that burglars are also looking forward to the next couple of months, but for different reasons. According to a recent study conducted 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, when you’re sunbathing on the beach, home security is probably the last thing on your mind. However, to help ease these worries, 247 Blinds has partnered with Simplisafe, home security specialists, to share some valuable tips on how to avoid break-ins and enjoy a worry-free vacation.
Firstly, 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.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to utilize the Keepsafe service offered by the Post Office. By requesting that your mail be held during your time away, you prevent a buildup of letters that could indicate your absence to potential burglars. This extra layer of security ensures that your post is kept safe and reduces the risk of confidential information falling into the wrong hands.
Another important measure is to ensure that all windows and doors are properly locked before leaving the house or going to bed. Jonathan emphasizes that this simple step denies thieves easy opportunities and is especially crucial in areas with higher levels of break-ins, such as student-heavy neighborhoods where expensive gadgets may be enticing targets.
Investing in home security gadgets can also be a great deterrent. Jonathan suggests installing a bell box, an outdoor siren, which signals the presence of a burglar alarm inside the house. Some alarms are even connected to professional monitoring centers that can request police response. Video doorbells are also highly effective, as they not only act as visible deterrents but also provide crucial evidence in case of an incident. Combining outdoor security cameras with hidden ones adds an extra layer of deterrence and ensures that footage is captured even if the visible cameras are targeted.
Lastly, Helen O’Connor, product manager at 247 Blinds, recommends installing motorized blinds as a smart and cost-effective alternative to other home security measures. These blinds create the illusion that someone is home, even when you’re away, making your property less attractive to potential burglars. Motorized blinds can be programmed to open and close at specific times, and they operate quietly and efficiently.
By following these tips and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing that your home is secure.