It`s that time of year when we go out and spend our hard earned pennies on well thought gifts for our loved ones.
We live by the rule, work, save spend and give,
But
Unfortunately there are those who live by another completely different code, namely that of don’t work, steal and keep for themselves.
Unfortunately, we see this throughout the year but it is all the more common at this time of year when criminals are fully aware that for many, houses have brand new shiny items in and for many they sit under a colourful beacon “The Christmas Tree”normally in the front window standing proud to advertise the fact.
Therefore we have put together some very easy and basic home security tips to help ensure you and your home are safe and secure over festive period.
Deter Criminals
No one wants to live in Fort Knox, however there are a few basic and generally cheap changes you can make.
Fit a sensor flood light to illuminate any areas that are vulnerable and in darkness and if possible lay a gravel drive and paths instead of tarmac or brick will make a criminal think twice.
Presents
We all love looking at presents around the tree, it is what makes Christmas, but it also advertises what you have. Therefore, avoid placing presents under the tree until Christmas morning, if you don’t advertise what you have they will think twice, why take risk for possibly nothing.
After the presents have been opened, be careful of the waste. Throwing boxes and packaging out is another way to advertise especially as normally we have to wait a while for the rubbish to be taken.
Store it out of site if possible.
Advertise through Social Media
If you’re going away, don’t advertise the fact. It is so easy with the likes of Facebook to let everyone know your away. Parents, don’t forget, this must apply to the kids as-well. Burglar’s don’t need to be your friends, they only need to view the front page and status!
This will generally give them enough to know when or where you are i.e Not at home and possibly a nice colour snap or your New Best Present. Don’t do it!
Stay Secure
Check all doors and windows are locked and secure. If the locks are faulty, don’t put it off getting them repaired or replaced. The bill might be high but the cost to replace everything will be a lot higher, especially if the insurers refuse to pay out the full amount which is often the case nowadays.
Don’t forget to ensure garages, sheds and outbuildings such as workshops or stables are also checked. Often, simple things light the shed unlocked will assist a criminal to break into your house with your tools.
Don’t leave a ladder in the garden. Lock it to a wall or the ground so that it can’t be used against you.
Outdoor Christmas Lights
It is very easy to want to put up some beautiful lights and especially if there is a little neighbourhood rivalry. A mistake made by some is to put a lead through a partially open window. This is a massive signal to criminals and needs to be avoided at all costs. Get an electric point installed by an electrician.
If your away
Cancel deliveries such as the paper or the milk. Arrange for a trusted neighbour of relative to watch the property and possibly park on the drive. Don’t leave telephone messages stating precise details and install a timer or two to operate lights around the house.
Hide keys to vehicles not taken or the spare house keys. Don’t leave them hanging on a hook generally either next to the front door or in the kitchen!
Believe it or not, a common place for the key is still UNDER THE MAT!
And lastly, if you have an intruder alarm, use it. If you don’t have an alarm, call an installer and even if you do not want a full system, have a box fitted. Only you will know whether it is real or not.
We hope you have found these Christmas security tips useful. Stay safe and secure and have a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2014
from
Owl Locksmiths and Security
