This post isn’t to scare you but I do feel we should all be reminded about the importance of keeping our homes and properties safe and secure.

In this post, I have highlighted my top tips that we can be put into practice to help prevent intruders and better secure our homes.

Here’s a little fact for you:

✔ 74% of burglars enter homes through the front door

✔ Having no security measures makes you five times more likely to be burgled

Here are my best home security tips

Lock everything

When it comes to home security tips, this may sound obvious but locking all of your most common entry points has to be step one on anyone's checklist.

Make sure that your front door, side gate, and garage door are all locked, and are able to withstand someone trying to break the door or its lock.

Britain’s police force warns that in most burglaries, the thief simply uses the front door, either by kicking it down or forcing the lock.

Add security lights

Lighting at the front and back of your house is one of the easiest ways to put off would-be burglars. If a light comes on as they approach, they’re less likely to risk being seen. Keeping the entryway to your home well lit is also safer for you. You’ll be greeted home with a light, so you won’t trip on the front step in the dark.

Keep your keys in a safe place

You might think your spare key is safe under the doormat or plant pot, but burglars know all the common hiding places. Never leave your keys in the inside of your door, as burglars can use the ‘fishing’ technique to reach them through the letterbox and let themselves into your home. Some insurers won’t pay out on a claim if there’s no sign of forced entry, so it’s even more important to keep your keys out of the hands of burglars.

Get an alarm system

If the nightmare scenario happens and someone breaks into your home, you’ll want to know and you’ll want your neighbours and police to know too.

Alarm systems fulfil this function, with sensors detecting intruders before playing a loud, high-pitched sound to alert you to danger and encourage your unwelcome guest to leave.

Some systems even allow you to add a helpful feature like CCTV cameras, to capture thieves in the act. If you choose this option, make sure they’re able to take high-resolution images which will help officers to catch the criminal.

Secure your windows

The same rule applies for windows — if you can prove to your insurer that your windows are secure, you may be able to get a more affordable insurance quote. But to ensure your home is safe, you must remember to lock your windows whenever you leave the house, and in the warmer months you should avoid leaving them open at night as this provides an easy entrance point for burglars. You should also check the condition of your windows frequently, as rusty locks and rotten frames can make access even easier.

2.3 million households across the UK are covered by the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.

Get a video doorbell

Many burglars will use a simple method to check if someone is present before breaking in: knocking on the door. If you’re looking for home security tips from a master burglar, this is a big one. In 2017, when Idaho-based TV station KTVB asked 86 burglars if they did this, every single one said yes. A video doorbell will let you know who’s outside your home, whether they’re a friend or foe, and give you the chance to talk to them as if you’re inside. All the best ones are in this article outlining the top home security gear out there at the moment.

Make your garage door impenetrable

You’re on your way to making your home into a fortress, having secured your windows and doors – but what about your garage? In terms of home security tips, it may sound simple, but it’s never a good idea to leave thieves with an opening.

Make sure the main garage door and any side doors are made of a solid material, such as metal. Cover any windows, and consider installing a specific alarm for the garage. After all, vehicle-related thefts are more common than any other kind of household theft, and have been ever since government records began in England and Wales in 1981.

Store your most priceless valuables in a safe

Protecting your home externally is crucial, and will stop most burglaries. But on the off-chance that a burglar is still able to get in and out before the police arrive to arrest them, you’ll want all your most precious items to be out of reach. A safe is the simple solution, giving you peace of mind that anything which you consider priceless will remain untouched. Safes can range from £30 to upwards of £29,000, so make sure to do some research before making a decision – but if you’re wondering how to improve home security, it’s all about making a safe bet.

Keep ladders and tools stored away

The British government warns people not to leave anything lying around the outside of your home which could be used to break in. It’s a simple step, but one which can keep you from becoming a victim. This includes ladders, gardening tools, and even loose rocks – anything which could make access to your home easier.

Don’t make it obvious when you’re away

It’s much easier for a burglar to enter your home and make off with your belongings if you’re not there to disturb them, which is why some burglars target homes when their occupants are away on holiday. Don’t make it obvious when you’re away — cancel any milk or newspaper deliveries so they don’t pile up outside your door and consider letting a trusted friend or neighbour check in on your home and collect any post that accumulates. It’s best to avoid advertising your absence on social media, especially if your posts are public.

I hope this helps. Please remember that the security of your property should always be a priority. Not only will it prevent burglary and theft, but it can also prevent your home from being devalued when you are looking to sell.

As always, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me should you like help in selling or letting your home, I would love to help.

I’m Gary Lintorn - Let Me Get You Moving...

gary@garylintorn.com

01322 555 000

07985 106832

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