As a nationally recognised locksmith company, LockRite truly understands the importance of home security. Your home is your sanctuary, and it’s crucial to protect it from potential burglaries. In this blog post, we’ll provide expert tips and advice on how to prevent burglary, ensuring peace of mind for you and your family. These strategies are based on factual information and proven methods, so you can trust that they work.
Install High-Quality Locks:
One of the most effective ways to prevent burglary is by installing high-quality locks on all entry points, including doors, windows, and the garage. Choose locks that meet the British Standard (BS3621) if you can, for the best security. Additionally, you might consider installing deadbolts, rim locks, or mortice locks to further reinforce your home’s defenses.
Reinforce Doors and Windows:
Burglars often target weak entry points. Strengthen your doors and windows by adding security measures such as door chains, peepholes, and good window locks. Reinforced or laminated glass are also options that can make it more difficult for intruders to break in.
Use a Home Security System:
Investing in a reliable home security system can significantly deter burglars. As well as being a good deterrent, it can help you monitor any potential weak spots and may even help to reduce your Home Insurance costs.
Opt for a comprehensive smart system that includes a variety of security products, such as burglar alarms, doorbell cameras, motion sensors, and CCTV cameras. Not only do these components deter potential intruders, but they also provide crucial evidence in case of a break-in. Read how this Ring Doorbell footage helped police to identify a burglar after a failed break-in attempt.
Ensure your security system is professionally installed and maintained for optimal effectiveness.
Illuminate Your Home:
Darkness provides cover for burglars, so proper lighting is essential. Install outdoor lighting around your property, particularly near entry points and vulnerable areas like the garage or garden. Motion sensor lights are particularly effective as they startle intruders and draw attention to their presence.
Secure Your Garden:
Don’t neglect the security of your outdoor space. Trim overgrown shrubs and trees that may provide hiding spots for burglars. Install sturdy fences and gates, and consider adding prickly bushes or thorny plants near vulnerable access points. Use robust locks to secure garden sheds and garages, ensuring valuable items are out of sight.
A recent study from Crimestoppers polling 1,000 UK households indicated that 2/3 were at an increased risk of burglary because their front hedge exceeded the height recommended by the police and charity Crimestoppers. These statistics highlight the need for routine garden maintenance to help deter intruders. Consider keeping your front hedges from exceeding the 1 metre recommended height.
Don’t Advertise Your Absence:
When you’re away from home, create the illusion of activity to deter burglars. Use timers to turn on lights and perhaps even a radio or television. If you can, ask a trusted neighbour or friend to collect mail and parcels, or you can temporarily redirect deliveries. Avoid sharing your absence on social media, as burglars may exploit this information.
Join a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme:
Participating in a Neighbourhood Watch scheme fosters community collaboration and helps prevent crime. By working together, neighbours can share information and look out for each other. Neighbourhood Watch signs alone can act as a deterrent for burglars, as they indicate a vigilant and proactive community.
Not sure if you live in a Neighbourhood Watch area? Search for a Neighbourhood Watch in your area.
In conclusion, protecting your home from burglaries requires a combination of smart security measures and proactive strategies. By implementing the tips mentioned above, you can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and keep your property and loved ones safe. Remember, prevention is key, and investing in reliable security systems and reinforcing your home’s defenses is always worthwhile.
Sources:
Crime Prevention Advice, UK Police: https://www.police.uk/crime-prevention-advice/burglary/
National Home Security Month: https://www.homesecuritymonth.com/
Yahoo News: https://uk.news.yahoo.com/burglar-caught-camera-ring-doorbell-145031212.html
Go Compare: https://www.gocompare.com/home-insurance/guide/security/
Neighbourhood Watch: https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/get-involved/find-my-local-scheme
