Most burglars are opportunists, they like easy targets, homes they can access without being detected. Time is of the essence for a burglar, the longer they spend trying to get in your home the more chance they will get caught. So make it as hard as possible for them, here are our top tips to deter a burglar.
Install a security light – Make it easy for a neighbour to peer out of their window and spot a burglar in the act. Putting a light on your access points will increase the chance of being spotted in a burglars mind so they might just move in to another house that isn’t so well lit.
Always lock your windows and doors – Seems like an obvious one but statistics show that windows and doors are the most likely entry points for a burglar. Most of us leave windows on the latch to let the fresh air in but this is just an open invitation to a burglar. Lock your windows and door with the key and then move the key to a safe place away from the lock.
Keep your garden tidy – Lots of outdoor foliage looks nice but its a cloak for a burglar. Keep climbing plants and bushes trimmed or don’t have them at all.
Keep your valuables hidden – Are your valuables visible from the street? Don’t advertise your wares, keep valuables in a locked, fireproof safe that’s bolted to the floor.
Put your lights on a timer – Using timed lighting especially in the winter or while you are away from your home can make it harder for a burglar to determine your routine.
Install a home security system – Homes without a security system are three times more likely to be broken into. Our home security systems can be linked to your smoke and CO detectors all of which are monitored 24/7. If there is an activation on the system we can send a first aid trained guard to your home, or we can alert your key holder or call the emergency services is an intruder is confirmed on the premises.
Dispose of your rubbish properly – Thieves will check around bins for any large cardboard boxes that high priced electricals came in. So make sure you dispose of recycling in the bin not next to it.
Don’t forget your garage – In the summer the kids are in and out of the garage getting every toy out but this makes it easy for a burglar to notice any expensive sports kit or tools, Keep the garage door shut as much as you can.
Catalogue your expensive items – Should the worst happen and a burglar gets away with your valuables, having pictures of your possessions can make an insurance claim easier.
If you have a Bulldog home security system and you need to make an insurance claim after a burglary we pay your insurance excess. A home security system is probably the best deterrent you can put in place and can be the difference between a break in and a burglary. If you would like to find out more about our fully monitored and guarded home security systems click here to send us a message