Crime and burglary statistics
According to the most recent crime statistics, the police recorded 6 million crimes in England and Wales in the year ending December 2021, and 258,185 of these incidents were burglaries. Of course, at Mayfair Fire & Security, we would advise that you install an intruder alarm system in your home. However, we understand that sometimes not everyone has the budget. So, what other measures can you take to provide more protection against burglaries in your home?
Check window locks
Burglars target windows as they can offer easier access than doors. If you tend to leave windows open to ventilate your home, we advise you to look at options such as window opening restrictors, which allow you to ventilate your home without the risk of the lock being picked and unlocked from outside. If you ever replace your windows, always consider a security accredited product. Although they may be more expensive, these windows are tested to British standards and are insurance approved.
Check door locks
Simply shutting the door won’t prevent burglaries. Double-lock the door every single time you leave the house.
Modern multi-locking and uPVC doors use a system of hooks and latches to secure the door, but these only work if you lift the handle and then remember to turn and remove the key. Remember – lift, lock and remove.
Keep valuables safe and secure
If you have high-value items such as jewellery, watches, passports, credit cards, computer data and identification documents, you may want to consider storing them in a safe. Most people might think that they have hidden their valuables well, but storing expensive items in your sock drawer in your bedroom isn’t necessarily safe. Especially when your bedroom is most likely the first place a burglar will look.
You could consider a home safe or a safety deposit vault. However, should you opt for a safe in your home, ensure it is fire rated. Position the safe carefully so it won’t be easily discovered. Be sure to effectively secure your safe by bolting it to a wall or floor.
Don’t leave spare keys in ‘safe places’
You may think that you have hidden your keys in an excellent hiding space, but burglars will be sure to look everywhere. If you can avoid it, don’t leave spare keys in hidden places. There’s always a risk that someone can find where your hiding spot is. It’s also possible that someone sees you whilst you’re hiding your keys, then they know exactly where they are and can enter your home as soon as you leave.
Going away?
Here are five tips to help you keep your home and belongings stay safe while you are away:
- When you’re going on holiday, be sure to keep your social media posts private and only share with friends
- leave lights and a radio on a timer to make the property appear occupied
- get a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property or join a Neighbourhood or resident Watch Scheme
- consider asking your neighbours to close curtains after dark and to park on your drive
- remember to cancel newspaper and milk deliveries