As the temperatures drop, the risk of your house being burgled rises. December and January are prime months for robberies, as thieves target homes filled with pricey Christmas gifts.
Over 275,000 break-ins were reported in the past year, marking a 4 percent increase from the year before. Anthony Neary, managing director at Safe Zone, shared three top tips to keep your property safe this winter.
According to Anthony, installing outdoor lights is a highly effective way to deter burglars. “December is the darkest month of the year, and the dark nights can last until March,” he noted. Automatic lights at the front and back of the house are particularly off-putting for thieves.
Another tip is to use timers for your lights, creating the illusion that someone is home. Burglars often target dark properties, so keeping your home well-lit can be a great deterrent.
Lastly, it’s crucial to keep valuables out of sight, especially during the festive season when homes are full of presents. “Make sure gifts are not visible through windows, as thieves are more likely to strike if they know they can grab multiple items quickly,” Anthony advised.
Additionally, be mindful of empty boxes that could give away the contents of your home. Disposing of or hiding packaging can help prevent burglaries. Remember, leaving game console boxes next to your bin is like putting up a neon sign for thieves.