How does a burglar pick a target

The nights are again getting longer and with them an increase of opportunities for burglars to target vulnerable homes.

So how can you prevent a person entering your home as a trespasser to steal from you?

Research suggests that people that commit burglary will look to establish if there is:

• Anybody at home
• CCTV covering the area or property
• A security alarm system fitted
• An easy way in, would they be seen when trying to get in?

In most cases the thieves do not have to use force. They simply get in through an open door or window.

So, what can YOU do to reduce the likelihood of this happening to you?

Let's go through the points above in more detail:

Anybody at home

YOU can consider using the following “signs of occupancy”.

When you go out or are away leave:

• Your lights on as if you were at home. Use timers or other devices if appropriate.
• The television or radio on. There are devices available that can create such effects.
• The curtains or blinds closed or ask a neighbour to do this for you at the appropriate time.
• A car on the drive, or offer the space to a neighbour or friend to use in your absence.

CCTV covering the area or property

If you don’t have a CCTV system then give careful consideration to whether it would be appropriate, realistic and cost effective to have one.

If you already have a CCTV system make sure it is operational, covering the appropriate area and recording images that are of the required quality, so that they can be used by police to identify offenders if a crime occurs.

If you need some advice on this please just drop me a message

A security alarm system fitted

Ask yourself if it would be appropriate, realistic and cost effective to have an alarm. Technology has advanced and continues to do so. If you decide to have an alarm there are many systems to consider and it is your choice what to spend your money on. Remember the criteria that you have set and don’t be encouraged to spend on something you don’t need. Systems these days can be basic (triggers that sound an audible alarm locally), to monitored systems (triggers that activate to a control centre who determine a response and/or call police and even systems that you can monitor yourself) and then there are quite sophisticated and monitored systems that are interactive and managed for you. It is always worth getting several quotes before parting with any money as well as specialist advice.

If you have a system already fitted, it is worth checking that it is still operational, effective and still meets your original criteria for the installation. Alarm systems require servicing and reviewing to ensure they continue to be ‘fit for your purpose’.

Remember: your alarm system will only work if you use it properly and in accordance with supplier/manufacturer instructions.

Again, if you need advice or would like to discuss options, we are here to help!

An easy way in and can they be seen when they try to get in? (Look at your home through a burglar’s eyes.)

• Windows - thieves will gain access through an unlocked door or open window. Make sure doors and windows are locked - particularly when leaving the house. 
• Keys – Never leave spare keys outside in a convenient hiding place such as under the doormat or in a flowerpot - a thief will look there first. If you've moved into a new house, consider changing the back and front door locks – previous occupants may have kept the spare keys that fit. Keep vehicle keys and house keys out of sight and away from accessible openings. Do not label your house keys with your name and/or address. NB: thieves are known to steal car keys so they can take cars, often using a hook or magnet on a stick pushed through the letterbox.
• Secure all doors - if your front and back doors are not secure, neither is your home. Thieves are most likely to target doors when attempting to break in. Check the condition of the frames, hinges and glass panels. Fit such devices as chains and door viewers. Patio doors may also need special fitted locks. Fit mortice locks or bolts to all outside downstairs doors, as well as locks to all downstairs or easily accessible windows.
• Good neighbours - if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, call the police.
• Neighbourhood Watch schemes – join your local scheme (see what they're doing and how you can contribute) or if there isn’t one – consider setting one up. 
• Remember- anything that will increase the time a burglar takes to commit the crime, creates more noise (so they are heard), or makes them look more conspicuous while committing the crime will increase the deterrent.

Conduct a home security survey

How would you get in if you’d forgotten your keys? If you can get in, so can a burglar.

• Are there places where they could break in without being seen?
• Would they have to make a lot of noise by breaking glass?

Please:

Check your insurance – appropriate insurance will relieve you of the financial worry of replacing stolen goods. Many insurance companies offer reduced premiums for people with good home security. 

Remember: most insurance companies specify the types of locks required and that they are used i.e. certified to British Standard BS7950 (windows) or PAS 24-1 (doors)

Have a great week!

Dave