It’s never fun realising you’ve been a victim of theft, especially when the thief has broken into your family home and stolen from you while you were away, or even more traumatising, while you were sleeping. To make matters worse, according to a criminologist report published by Confused.com, if a burglar realises your property is easily accessible and has seen what kind of valuables you have that they may not have taken the first time, they are likely to return a second time. When they do, they are more likely to be efficient since they know the best entry and exit points, plus where all your valuables are.

Unfortunately, most people think getting burgled was a one-time event and they chalk it up to bad luck. This is generally not the case. Burglars often stake out their targets and choose which homes to break into very carefully. There are a number of reasons why a person’s home could have been targeted, so thinking it was just bad luck and not taking any security measures or precautions to stop it from happening again is a huge mistake.

Reasons burglars hit the same homes twice

Thieves tend to return to the scene of the crime to see if the site is still easy to break into because it’s easier than staking out a new home. If they don’t return themselves, they could also tell others who could try for themselves. It may sound like paranoia, but if you’re an easy target, why would they choose a different target that could be more difficult or dangerous?

Thieves are opportunistic, so if they feel comfortable after their first time, it’s highly likely they will return to scope out the scene again and see if it still is just as easy as it was. They are familiar with the logistics of the crime, like how the property is laid out, where the valuables are, what time is best to strike, and how to get into and out of the home in the easiest way. The most opportunistic burglars will actually strike quite soon after the first burglary because they know you won’t be expecting it so soon.

Steps you should take after a burglary

The absolute first step to take is to call the police. Do not touch anything in your home once you have realised the situation to avoid accidentally tampering with or destroying evidence and explain to the police in detail what happened.

Next, make a list of all the items that have been stolen so when the police arrive you can tell them. If there was anything of high value taken, call your insurance provider as well. They can advise you on what to do and tell you if your stolen objects are covered. Your insurance can also help with any immediate costs, like paying to fix something that was broken when they burglar entered your home.

Check to make sure your keys aren’t missing. If you think there is a key missing, change your locks immediately. Then, check to see what kind of vulnerabilities your home has. The burglar targeted you for a reason, so if you don’t have an alarm system or if you leave your windows or doors unlocked, it’s best to remedy this right away. Installing a CCTV camera or smart home security system is ideal, as it gives you the ultimate control over your security settings. Make sure to always lock your windows and doors when you leave and while you’re home to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.

Smart technology is fast revolutionising the way we do things, and it’s no different where home security is concerned. ERA is now offering a cloud-based solution to your security needs, upping the protection factor to prevent any potential threats to your home.

Based in the West Midlands, ERA has been designing and manufacturing locks since 1838. As people have adapted the way they live, ERA has adapted their product range to protect what’s important to them.

This new range of ERA smart devices is easily installed and suitable for any home with a WiFi connection, and effortlessly controlled by the ERA app. At LockRite, we can take care of the full installation of your ERA smart security products, ready for you to easily manage on the move.

So, what’s included in the ERA Smart range?

ERA HomeGuard Pro Alarm System

This fully integrated cloud-based alarm system allows you to secure multiple locations at any one time, and monitor them easily. This means that not only can you secure your home, but your business premises too, or any other important location, such as a garage or storage unit – all controlled from one account. This alarm system also allows you to choose which individuals are permitted access, and this can be changed at any time.

With the app, you can monitor this alarm system anywhere, at any time, with quick control and easy management. Use of the cloud means that all your details and settings are safely stored. The HomeGuard is also ready to use with any other ERA smart security product.

ERA DoorCam

The ERA smart DoorCam is a video doorbell which allows you to see who is at your door, even when you are not at home. Through WiFi connectivity, you can answer the door via your smartphone from any place.

The DoorCam provides clear and efficient video imagery, due to its 180-degree field of vision and use of 720p HD resolution video recording capabilities, which won’t be compromised by weather or temperature. This DoorCam also has night vision technology, meaning it remains operational day and night.

The ultra-slim design allows for a subtle addition to any home, in black or white, ready to blend in with your exterior.

ERA HomeCam

An important safety addition to any home is a security camera. The ERA HomeCam operates on enhanced motion detection technology with a super wide-angle working at 5 Megapixels, along with HD video quality at 720p. Even during the night, the clear video quality is never compromised.

The HomeCam doesn’t only record images, but it operates with two-way audio including built-in microphone and speaker, too. The HomeCam also has a 110-degree field of vision with the ability to turn 360-degree, meaning that no area of your home will be left uncovered.

More than one HomeCam can be installed wherever needed, all controlled via WiFi, and all easily operated from the free app.

ERA TouchKey

ERA’s TouchKey system is the upcoming addition to their full smart range. The One Touch Keyless Smart Lock is set to revolutionise the way you unlock your doors. Using military-grade encryption and ERA’s extensive experience with mechanical locks, the TouchKey System will secure your doors without the need for a key.

Looking to purchase a smart security system, installed by trusted professionals? The ERA smart security range could be for you. Contact us today to discuss your requirements: 0800 0612 677.

In comparison to other nations, the UK is a relatively safe place to live. However, there are, of course, some destinations across the country that are more susceptible to crimes and break ins than others. Typically, cities will have a high crime rate; however, this is not always the case. Small villages can also be vulnerable to burglary.

Areas of high crime should not necessarily be avoided, as by implementing a few simple safety measures you can help set up your home to protect you and your loved ones from burglary and break in.

The idea of somebody you don’t know having access to your home and belongings is a distressing thought. It doesn’t matter if you are in the house or not, you should not have to spend your time worrying about whether your house, belongings and loved ones are safe.

According to analysis by MoneySupermarket, as of January 2019, some of the top areas in the UK for burglaries and break in are as follows:

• Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire
• Ingatestone, Essex
• Ilford, London
• Edinburgh
• Leeds
• Solihull, Birmingham
• Woking, Surrey
• Cheadle, Stoke on Trent
• Manchester

What are these statistics based on?

These statistics were analysed from two million home insurance quotes over the last two years, identifying the top postcodes with claims for home contents theft. As well as some rural spots, including small villages, some busy cities also make the top 10 including Edinburgh and Manchester. Bristol, Liverpool and Cambridge also ranked rather highly.

The various types of burglary

Burglary can take many forms, including:

Simple burglary – An individual entering your home without permission.

Aggravated burglary – When an individual gains unauthorized entry into a building with somebody inside, and the individual is in possession of a weapon.

Home invasion – A rarer crime, but still possible. A home invasion is a pre-meditated act that may involve force or violence to enter an establishment with intent.

Some burglars may focus on a set area or neighbourhood, and have methods of forced entry. As well as taking advantage of unlocked doors and windows, some will be happy to break windows and break down doors to gain access and take whatever they can.

Other criminals may be more specialised, will be more efficient and aim to leave no trace of forced entry to your home.

Your front door is often considered the most common entry point for thieves. For many, they may search for a spare key, or if a criminal knows you are not at home, they may simply force open your door. The secondary door in your home applies to side doors, garage doors and skylights. It is advised that you don’t neglect these entry points, as it could be easier for a burglar to gain access through these, particularly if there are items nearby to help them do the job.

So, what preventative measures can I take?

• Lock your doors and windows every time you leave your house. This may include when you’re out in the garden.
• Hide all keys out of sight and away from the letterbox. The letterbox is a common tool for burglars to use to help gain entry if they can. Typical methods are reaching in and grabbing nearby keys or turning the door lock.
• Leave radios or lights on when you are away from home to create the illusion that someone is home, or install timers for your lights.
• Make sure side gates and fences are in good condition. Ensure your garden gate has a solid and secure lock.
• Install outside light sensors.
• Install a home security CCTV system.
• Install a burglar alarm.

Home security systems are one of the easiest and safest ways to deter a criminal from targeting your home. Security measures could include:

• Smart Locks – These enable you to lock your doors using an app or key fob. This removes the need for a key and there are various types with models compatible with PVCu and Composite doors as well as timber doors.
• Alarms – Alarms are a steadfast and obvious deterrent for burglars. According to recent studies, 60% of burglars say they would be discouraged from targeting a house if they knew an alarm was installed.
• CCTV Installation – You can take your security measures one step further by installing CCTV that can be monitored from your smartphone, tablet or PC.
• Light timers – Making a house seem occupied through light timers is a simple way to deter burglars, who simply may not bother if they think somebody is in. Fake occupancy strategies are inexpensive and a practical way to prevent you from becoming an easy target.

Nobody wants to be a target for burglary. However, by being aware and implementing some simple security measures, you can rest assured in knowing that you have done all you can and will not be an easy target in any way for criminals.

No-one should ever be made to feel unsafe in their town or city, but they definitely should never feel in danger in their own home. If you want to protect your property, yourself and your loved ones, get in touch with us here at LockRite and see how we can help strengthen your home’s security.

Crimes against businesses often come at a very high cost for those targeted. In addition to equipment and merchandise being lost, business owners will also most likely need to deal with fixing the damage the burglar has caused. This can range from broken windows to smashed locks and doors.

That said, it only makes sense to employ the best security measures to minimise the risks and better protect your business against theft.

Here are a few tips meant to help you with that.

Consider Carrying out a Risk Assessment

This is an excellent place to start strengthening your business’s defence system against theft, as it will help you identify possible vulnerabilities within it.

Chances are you have an idea of how your business may be exposed, but at the same time, consider that it could be just a piece of the puzzle.

To get the full image of the risks burglars can take advantage of to target your business, go for a professional service which can provide you with reliable information and advice.

Depending on your business location and size, trading hours, the type of merchandise you sell, staff and more, the assessment may, for instance, reveal an imperative need to:

• Replace or upgrade your locks to protect your business. This usually happens in the case of old locks or locks which don’t comply with the British Standards.
• Have a restricted key system in place. A restricted key system means keys that are cut and copies of a key can only exclusively be made with your permission. This would allow you to stay in control of the number of key copies being made and ensure keys can’t be stolen and copied.
• Better secure your windows by adding locks, especially if the windows are facing towards a parking lot or an alley.
• Have cabinet locks installed to secure file cabinets which hold important documents.

Leverage Technology to Secure Your Business Premises

Nowadays, business owners can benefit from a wide array of high tech security solutions. Here are three of them which will help you better protect your business:

• Smart Locks which allow access to be granted from a distance. Another significant benefit of having smart locks installed is that you will be able to keep track of when the doors were unlocked and by whom.
• HD CCTV surveillance which lets you keep an eye on the premises remotely and discourages burglars from targeting your business. What’s more, security cameras may turn out to be highly-efficient at preventing vandalism and trespassing, as well.
• Security Alarms are known to be highly-efficient at keeping intruders at bay.  As a best practice, we recommend you also put up signs to warn passers-by of its presence.

Need Help? Rely on Our Expert Locksmiths to Better Protect Your Business

The security of your business is not something you can deal with once and then forget about it.

Burglars are always coming up with new strategies; looking for new vulnerabilities in your system. So it’s essential you stay one step ahead and conduct regular check-ups to safeguard your business.  

This is a challenge we can help you with.

We provide a one-stop solution towards an improved security of your business property.

Here, you can learn more about the vast array of commercial locksmith services we offer to businesses operating in the UK.

If you’re ready to start taking necessary steps towards better protecting your business against theft and are looking for a reliable partner, the easiest way to reach us is by calling this number 0800 0612 677.