Properties without security protection are five times more likely to be burgled

Properties without security protection are five times more likely to be burgled than those that have security systems in place. It’s surprising how just a few simple security improvements can deter a burglar.

Here are a few tips…

Lock your doors and windows every time you leave the house, even when you’re just out in the garden, remembering to double-lock UPVC doors (lift handle and turn key)
Hide all keys, including car keys, out of sight and away from the letterbox (remember a device could be used to hook keys through the letterbox)
Install a visual burglar alarm (as part of a suite of prevention measures – a burglar alarm on its own will not prevent entry to your home)
Install good outside lighting
Get a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property
Leave radios or lights in your house on a timer to make the property appear occupied
Make sure the fences around your garden are in good condition
Secure bikes at home by locking them to an immoveable object inside a locked shed or garage
Keep ladders and tools stored away; don’t leave them outside where they could be used to break into your home
Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property
Ensure rear fencing is in good repair
Improve natural surveillance at the front of your property i.e. trim high hedges
Mark your property with postcode and house number and register your property for free with Immobilise
Consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme
Remove valuables from view of ground floor windows
Store any high value items (i.e. jewellery, passports) in a properly secured safe or bank vault