Security Tips For Homeowners
We eagerly anticipate March 31st 2024 when the clocks spring forward to British Summer Time.
But did you know that statistics have found 43 per cent of thefts from our homes and gardens happen in the Spring – that’s even more than in winter when traditionally people expect crime on darker nights?
The return of longer days and warmer weather is far more likely to encourage crime with many incidents occurring because we mentally switch off and relax as better weather approaches.
At Secure Home Systems we have a few handy pointers for homeowners to ensure they don’t become a statistic this Spring.
Locking Doors and Windows
With the onset of warmer weather, it is tempting to open doors and windows but remember not to leave them open if you are popping out. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s surprising how many people don’t do it. Even if you’re going out for a few minutes, locking the door behind you can give you peace of mind.
Even a small window can be the doorway to a burglar so never leave them open when you’re not at home.
Speak to one of our security advisors about having a home security alarm and door and window sensors that will alert you as soon as anyone breaks in.
And if you take out our 24-hour, seven-day-a-week monitoring service you will also have peace of mind knowing if anyone does trigger your alarm while you are out, our monitoring station will alert you or your keyholders or if necessary, trigger a security response.
Remember too you can buy window locks which are useful to keep predators out as they make it difficult to force windows open if you are going away.
Holiday getaways
Spring comes hand in hand with Easter and an obvious opportunity to book a family holiday while the children are off school.
Remember not to post your holiday whereabouts and length of stay on Facebook as this is simply an advertisement for thieves and never leave a spare key under the doormat for a neighbour.
Better still speak to one of our Secure Home Systems advisors about a fully monitored home security system. This means that your home is monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you can nominate a trusted neighbour who can pop around and check in on things if needed.
Garden sheds
As warmer weather approaches, we all want to get out our lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, bikes, or golfing gear.
But this highlights to passers-by what you have on your property, so ensure all outside equipment is safely secured in a lockable shed.
Ensure your shed is locked and any valuables postcode-marked with an infrared pen so that should your property be stolen, it can be reunited with you if it is recovered.
Why not speak to a Secure Home Security advisor about CCTV that can protect your garden and home?
It is known that criminals will try and avoid a house with cameras and instead choose one without. And why not discuss cost-effective security lighting? Simple outdoor lights triggered when someone walks onto the property and immediately illuminate the area can also be an excellent deterrent.
Secure your door
You can secure your door in many ways. The key is to find a solution that works for you, your budget and your lifestyle.
Install deadbolts. A deadbolt is a lock that requires a key from both sides of the door — it’s not just for locking the door when you leave. Ensure you get one with a good track record for reliability and durability, like the ones we recommend below.
Add a door chain. A chain can keep someone out even if they have a key because it makes them visible through the peephole before they enter. You should also get peepholes in every exterior door to see who’s outside before opening it up. A peephole will allow you to see whether anyone is on the other side without giving away too much information about yourself or making yourself vulnerable to an attack.
Invest in a Video Doorbell
A video doorbell is a great way to improve your home security. It will let you see who is at your door, even if you’re not in the room. This helps you avoid unpleasant surprises and lets you know who they are before opening the door.
There are many advantages to having a video doorbell over one that just makes noise. You’ll be able to tell whether it’s a friend or family member who needs help or if it’s someone with less than honourable intentions.
You can also use your smartphone as a remote control for the device, so you don’t have to go running for it every time someone pulls up in front of your home or rings the bell.
Searching for Professional home security in Digbeth? Contact Secure Home Systems today for a free estimate.