Despite the Government declaring that numbers of property-centric crimes are falling, they still accounted for 70% of all Police-recorded crime throughout 2013/2014. Aside from that and regardless of stats however, a home break in is one of those harrowing experiences that we all dread. Unfortunately for some, it happens all too often.
What measures can you take to secure your home?
First things first – we would all do well to never underestimate the thinking criminal. Burglars will spend large amounts of time researching and scanning for properties that aren’t overlooked at the front or rear, or houses without overt alarm systems or CCTV cameras. They will even target properties with single glazing and ones that suggest poor double-glazing.
It might sound obvious, but one initial and steadfast rule to live by is to make sure ALL doors and windows are locked and secure – it is amazing how many people (especially those living in villages) do not think this is necessary. If you are travelling, let a trusted neighbour know that you are going to be away. Also ensure any outbuildings are locked and properly secured.
Following a simple set of home-protection rules may help reduce the chances of your home falling victim to burglary. Remember:
- Make sure your garden neat and cared for – overgrown hedges are ideal protection for a burglar.
- Remove and secure items such as ladders or tools, which might help provide easy access.
- Cancel any milk or paper deliveries. Built up piles of newspapers or milk bottles are an obvious sign that no-one is home.
- Don’t let your post pile up – the Royal Mail Keepsafe service is a superb one – they duly hold onto your mail while you are away. Easy!
- Consider automatic timers to switch on lights or play the radio so there is some sound coming from somewhere in premises when it gets dark.
- Fit a simple alarm system covering the main entrances front and back.
In the past, burglars have admitted to Police that a visible security system – such as an alarm box – can act as a deterrent. Also, a dog is a fantastic scare tactic – the majority of burglars will actively avoid a property that they think might hold a canine security system. Based on this (even if you do not have a dog) it might be well worth investing in a ‘Beware of the Dog’ sign or two. You can never be too careful!
Social Media Pitfalls
Before the advent of the Internet and social media sites, burglars would scan obituary columns to deceive grieving families. In the modern era however, they can very easily and very anonymously use Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms as tools in gathering digital intelligence.
Such sites, if used in the wrong way, act as a loud and clear advert to potential thieves. Your personal pages, if not secure, give them far more intelligence on your whereabouts than you might think!
Based on this, avoid pitfalls such as tagging you and your family/friends into airport lounges, or sharing your location on Facebook while you are in another country. Only share photos with your friends and family once you have returned home safely. Once a burglar is fully (and easily) aware that you are out of the country, this increases your chances of burglary. God forbid, but in the event that this does happen, burglars are even more likely to spend more time in your home to maximize their haul.
Weddings are another favourite time for burglars. To them this might mean you have bought expensive jewellery or garments. So make sure you apply restrictions on your Facebook page to friends only – do not make your content available to the wider public.
Shield Services
This all comes back to the adage – you cannot put a price on peace of mind. It often seems out of reach when we think of home security, but we say let that not be the case! A security provider that helps you protect your home and private possessions is invaluable. Shield Security provides a number of affordable services:
Key holding – this ensures a spare set of keys are available at all times.
Emergency response – our team can respond rapidly to intruders, fire, flood or lock out.
CCTV/Remote monitoring – supported by high-tech equipment and officers, our control room can monitor your property 24/7/365. In case of an emergency our highly trained mobile security team can provide alarm response.
We are fully aware that we as humans are not all alike, and that is why we, at Shield Security provide a cost-effective, bespoke solution for all our customers. We carry out an initial, free risk assessment at a customer’s property to provide a realistic solution for their security needs.
In terms of affordability, price is more a question of the value you attach to your home and your personal possessions within it. The majority of the population would attest that their personal belongings and memories that are attached to such items are invaluable. Would you?
Click here to contact Shield now.