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, August has been recorded as one of the highest months for break-in incidents. With many homeowners away on holiday, 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. To help ease your worries, 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 shout about your holiday on social media. Jonathan Wall, UK general manager at Simplisafe, advises against broadcasting your absence from home on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Additionally, it’s wise to keep valuables out of view from windows.
Another 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 burglars could use as an indication that you haven’t been home in a while. 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 important in areas with higher levels of break-ins, such as student-heavy neighborhoods where thieves may target homes with expensive gadgets.
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 that can request police response. Video doorbells are also effective in deterring criminals and capturing evidence for the police. Placing both visible and hidden outdoor security cameras can further enhance the security of your property.
Lastly, installing motorized blinds can create the illusion that someone is home even when you’re away. Helen O’Connor, product manager at 247 Blinds, explains that these blinds, also known as smart blinds, can be a cost-effective alternative to other security measures. They are opened and closed by a small motorized unit, giving the appearance of regular roller blinds. They can even be set on a timer, making it difficult for anyone to tell they are electric.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your summer holiday with peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken steps to protect your home from potential break-ins.