With over 234,000 burglaries reported in England and Wales in the past year, it’s important to take steps to secure your home, especially as the nights get longer. By being proactive and improving your home’s security measures, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
Here are some tips to make your home more secure:
1. Make access more difficult: Eliminate potential entry points and hiding spots for burglars by securing your property. Lock away tools, trim overgrown vegetation, and consider planting thorny or spiky plants as a natural barrier.
2. Install outside lighting: Motion-activated sensor lights can deter thieves by illuminating dark areas around your home. Consider using waterproof string lights and solar-powered spotlights for added security.
3. Invest in a security system: Protect and monitor your home with a security system that can be controlled via a smartphone app. Prices range from £400-600 for a basic alarm to over £1,500 for a smart security system.
4. Upgrade the locks: Ensure that windows and exterior doors are properly secured with British Standard locks. Consider adding additional security measures such as sash jammers and anti-lift devices.
5. Avoid letting your home look unoccupied: Create the illusion that someone is home by leaving lights on, using a remote-controlled smart plug, and asking a neighbor to check on your property while you’re away.
6. Protect the garden: Secure outdoor items such as furniture, tools, and bikes in a garage or shed. Replace rusty locks, fit an alarm, and consider chaining valuable items for added protection.
7. Be vigilant: Encourage everyone in your household to be mindful of security measures such as keeping valuables out of sight, locking doors and windows, and setting the alarm when leaving the house.
Remember, taking these simple steps can help protect your home and reduce the risk of burglary. Stay safe and secure!