The second week of National Home Security Month considers how we can keep our possessions and property safe and secure. This of course includes simple things like making sure we lock our premises when we're not there, but also what type of locks we are using, and whether or not they are up to the job.
One in five people admitting to leaving their front or back door unlocked when they are out. Not only does this leave the property far less secure, it is also likely to invalidate your insurance meaning that in the event of a burglary, they won't pay out on your claim. Insurance companies will often state a requirement to have a particular type of lock on your doors, namely a British Standard one. The detail of the standards is such that locks that meet them will have been thoroughly tested against a range of criteria to ensure they offer the best possible security. There are of course a wide range of lock types available, so it is always worth checking what your insurance company is asking and how that compares to what you have in your door. You can find out more about 'Insurance Approved Locks' here:
https://www.locksonline.co.uk/Locks/Insurance-Approved-Locks.html
Got an alarm? Use it!
Visual and audible deterrents will help reduce the likelihood of a burglary. However, 34% of homeowners with an alarm system don't set them. Even though an alarm box on the outside of your house will provide some element of deterrent, it is worth setting the system when you go out. There are a wide range of systems available these days, from those that simply make a noise when a breach is detected, to others that will alert a monitoring centre or even your smartphone, giving you the option to request further intervention from the police if required. It is also worth checking with your insurance company to find out what they see as an appropriate system and whether that will impact on your premiums at all.
Keep things out of sight
The average burglar will spend between eight and 12 minutes in a home once they've got in. Items that are small, light, easy to carry and valuable are most likely to be targeted, so it makes sense to keep them hidden away out of sight. The trick is finding secure or concealed places that aren't so obvious. For example, jewellery tends to be kept in the bedroom, and will often be stored in a jewellery box or drawer, easy targets for a burglar! Have a think about where else such items could be concealed out of sight that aren't so obvious. Installing a home safe, hidden away out of sight will create somewhere for jewellery, cash or electronic devices to be securely kept. Just make sure you use it!
As is often the case, taking a level headed and common sense approach to home security can make a big difference. Make sure that you lock your premises when you leave. Make sure that the locks you've got are suitable for the job and working correctly. If you have an alarm system, set it when you're out and test it regularly too. Lastly, avoid leaving valuable items just laying about the place, keep them out of sight and reduce the visual temptation for a passing potential burglar! As always, if you have any questions about locks, home security and the best system for you, simply get in touch and let us help you keep your home and possessions secure.
