Over 234,000 burglaries have been reported in England and Wales in the past year, with numbers spiking during the long nights once the clocks have gone back.
By being aware of your home’s vulnerable spots and improving security, you can reduce the risk of it becoming a victim of crime. Here are some tips on making your home more secure.
Start with a visual check to eliminate potential entry points and hiding places for burglars. Lock away garden tools and ladders, move bins that could be used to reach upstairs windows, and apply anti-climb paint to drainpipes.
“Thorny or spiky plants like roses and hawthorn create a natural barrier as they are difficult and painful to get through,” says Jon Saeed, managing director of Lighting Legends. “Dense bushy plants, for example holly and firethorn, are also effective.”
Motion-activated sensor lights help deter thieves, who prefer operating under cover of darkness. These lights switch on automatically when movement is detected and should be installed close to external doors, gates, and outbuildings.
A security system both protects and monitors your home and most are controlled via a smartphone app. “On average, a regular burglar alarm costs £400-600, while more complex, fully equipped smart security systems are in excess of £1,500,” explains Jake Stephens, technical director at HiiLIFE.
Locks should be fitted on windows as well as exterior doors. Get a locksmith to check that existing ones are correctly installed, in good condition, and comply with the terms of your home insurance policy.
An unoccupied property is particularly vulnerable, so create the impression that someone’s in. Leave lights and a radio on when out after dark and if you’re away for longer, use a remote-controlled smart plug to switch lights on and off at different times of the day.
Outdoor furniture, tools, lawnmowers, and bikes can provide rich pickings for burglars, even when kept in a garage or shed. Ensure that the structure is sound and replace rusty padlocks and hinges.
Everyone in your household needs to be vigilant about security. Get into the habit of keeping valuables and keys out of sight, locking doors, gates, and windows, and changing the burglar alarm code regularly.
Download the Yahoo Finance app for more tips on home security.