With nearly 400,000 burglaries taking place in the UK each year; it’s absolutely vital that homeowners take some simple measures to protect your home and its contents.
It’s also a good idea to have valid home insurance, so that in the event of a burglary occurring you can claim back the cost of repairing or replacing anything in your home. But there are some easy things you can do to prevent and deter burglars from taking advantage of your home in the first place, here are some home security tips to help keep your home safe.
Set your Alarm
If you’re security conscious, you may want to consider installing an alarm system in your home; as well as providing additional security and safety it could also help to reduce your home insurance premiums. But it is good to note that if you have one installed, it needs to be activated to be effective – make a habit of setting your alarm whenever you leave the house and before you go to bed at night.
Secure your Windows
If you can prove to your insurance provider that your windows are safe and secure, you might be able to get a more affordable insurance quote. But to ensure that your home is safe, you must remember to check and lock your windows when you leave the house; and in the warmer months you should avoid leaving them open at night as this provides would-be intruders with an easy entrance point. You should also check the overall condition of your windows frequently, as rusty locks and rotten frames can make access easy.
Update your Locks
The installation of certain approved lock types can reduce your home insurance premiums – this is because they are the safest and the most likely to prevent burglars from gaining entry into your home. Some professional burglars have become familiar with certain locks, and have developed ways to defeat them easily, so it’s important to have modern, professionally fitted locks.
Smart Lighting
Many burglars operate in darkness with the aim of being as discreet and to go unnoticed. Motion sensor lighting can alert you or your neighbours to movement near your home and can be enough to put off thieves.
Don’t Make it Obvious When you’re Away
Some thieves make it a habit to target homes when their occupants are away on holiday as it is much easier to gain entry and make off with your belongings with nobody there to stop them. Don’t make it obvious when you’re going away – cancel any newspaper deliveries so they don’t pile up outside your door and consider letting a family member, neighbour or friend check in on your home. It’s also best not to advertise that your away on social media, especially if your posts are public.
Check your Security Regularly
Don’t take it for granted that your security measures are all operating as they should be. If you have an alarm or smart lighting, you should be checking them regularly. It’s a good idea to include a full annual check of all your security measures, this ensures that everything is working as it should be. This is also a good time to include checking your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors too.
Contact the team today to discuss how we can help to keep your home safe.
