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. Keeping this in mind, 247 Blinds has partnered with Simplisafe, home security specialists, to share tips on how to avoid break-ins and enjoy a worry-free vacation.
One important tip is to avoid broadcasting your holiday plans on social media. Jonathan Wall, UK general manager at Simplisafe, advises against sharing information about being away from home, such as holidays or overnight stays, and suggests keeping valuables out of view from windows.
Another suggestion is to set up a Keepsafe at the post office. Jonathan recommends asking the Post Office to hold any mail received during your time away. This prevents a build-up of letters that burglars could use as an indication that you haven’t been home in a while. 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. 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 areas where thieves may target those who have forgotten to lock up.
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 home. Video doorbells are also recommended as they act as visible deterrents and allow you to capture evidence on video for the police if needed. Additionally, placing outdoor security cameras alongside covert ones can provide even more deterrence and ensure footage is captured even if the visible cameras are targeted.
Helen O’Connor, product manager at 247 Blinds, highlights the benefits of installing motorized blinds. These blinds, also known as smart blinds, create the illusion that someone is home even when you’re away, making your property a less attractive target for burglars. Motorized blinds are operated by a small, efficient motor that opens and closes the blinds. They look like regular roller blinds, making it difficult for anyone to tell they are electric, and can be set on a timer.
By following these tips and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about the security of your home.