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Did you know that in the UK, it’s estimated that there’s a burglary every 40 seconds? Security should be on the top of your priority list to help keep yourself and your family safe. Burglar-proofing doesn’t have to break the bank. To help you protect your home from burglars, we’ve listed the 15 best ways to prevent burglary.
1. Reinforce your doors.
Did you know that 34% of burglars simply stroll in through the front door? In order to prevent burglary, you need to start by ensuring your home is secure from burglars. One of the best ways to prevent burglary is also the most simple: check your front door! Make sure that your letterbox isn’t large enough for someone to reach through, and if you’ve moved house make sure to change the door locks immediately. Other ways to make your home secure from burglars include:
- Installing a 3* Security Euro Cylinder Lock
- Replacing your door handle with a security door handle set
- Adding a Strike Plate
- Using smart locks
2. Secure your windows.
Aside from doors, burglars love windows. There’s nothing lovelier than feeling a cool breeze throughout the house on a hot day, or opening a window to remove cooking smells. But please don’t forget to lock your windows before you leave the house to protect your house from burglars. Additionally, consider changing your windows or window locks. Poor quality window latches are flimsy and ineffective, so consider increasing your security with locks, key-operated levers or window security restrictors.
3. Make sure your locks are in good shape.
As mentioned previously, changing the locks when you’ve moved house is vital to ensure that no one else has access to your home. Also, check the property for any broken locks or locks that look easy to pick. Finally, replace your locks with more secure versions, and ensure all exterior doors have locks that work without jamming.
4. Strengthen windows, locks and hardware.
So you’ve changed your locks to more secure models. You’re finished! But not quite…. Your locks may be secure, but what about your actual windows or doorframes? You might want to consider replacing old doors, especially if you have moved into an old property. To protect your home from burglars, add extra door hardware for increased security. Door reinforcement kits, door barricades or security bars are excellent choices for strengthening a door’s weak point. For windows, add window locks or bars.
5. Be smart about your spare key.
Have you ever left your key in a place so secure that you’ve forgotten about it? Or maybe you ‘hide’ your keys in the most obvious spots: under the doormat or hiding in a plant pot. These mistakes could be fatal and do nothing to protect your home from burglars. Instead, use a key safe hidden in a concealed place to reduce your chances of having your key stolen, or worse, being broken into!
6. Remove potential hiding spots.
Large decorative shrubs or towering flowers may look pretty, but could they be used for cover? If you have any bushes or trees near entry points to your home, we suggest removing them to eliminate hiding spots for burglars. Additionally, scare off burglars by adding a security sticker to the outside of your property, even if you don’t own a security system – it’s one of the best ways to prevent burglary.
7. Remove valuables from sight.
Don’t flash the cash! If you’re serious about protecting your home from burglars, don’t leave your important belongings in plain sight. For example, if expensive items such as electronics, cash, or jewellery are visible from the window, move them to a more private spot. Similarly, before you go to sleep at night, remember to tidy away any expensive or suggestive items in your garden.
8. Place your most valuable objects in a safe.
In the event that a burglar invades your house, you want to ensure that your most valuable possessions are protected. A safe is a great option for storing belongings such as passports and rings. The safe should be heavy enough so that the thief can’t run off with it. If you can, purchase one that’s waterproof and fire-proof, just to cover all basis.
9. Illuminate your garden.
An inexpensive way to make your home secure from burglars is to install outdoor lighting in your garden or patio. Robbers don’t like the spotlight! By lighting up your exterior, you eliminate the occurrence of burglars hiding in the shadows. Use energy-saving solar lights to cut down on electricity bills or, for the more forgetful folk, use lights on a timer so that you’re never left in the dark.
10. Opt for motion-sensor lights.
Simply installing a motion sensor adapter in between the bulb and the socket turns your ordinary lights into clever motion-sensor ones. If using outdoors, this will make burglars appear skittish due to the surprise light. Similarly, if your house is invaded, it will make it harder for burglars to move around undetected. This method is simple, accessible, and one of the best ways to prevent burglary.
11. Remember the garage.
The garage can often be overlooked: it’s usually a dumping ground for your overflowing belongings. However, this entry point is popular with burglars. Get into a good habit of locking the garage door after you’ve left. If your garage door is remote controlled, keep the remote hidden away in your kitchen drawer or another unobvious hiding spot.
12. Lock down your Wi-Fi network.
Did you know that your wireless network can store precious data such as personal and financial information? Also, if you depend on WiFi for smart home gadgets or your security system, a leak in your network could compromise the security of your home. But, don’t worry, there are some simple steps on the best ways to protect your house from burglars.
- Secure your router with a WPA or a WPA2 encryption.
- Rename your home network often.
- Use antivirus and anti-malware products.
13. Invest in a security system.
Does your home have a security system? There is a multitude of home security systems to choose from, but which to pick? Choose a system that you’re comfortable with, you believe can protect your home from burglars most effectively, and provides the needs for your personalized security level. Keep in mind upfront and monthly costs, customer service rating and brand reputation when choosing a security system for your home.
14. Mobile-friendly home automation.
Tempted by smart lights, smart TVs, or other smart gadgets? Smart security systems are an excellent place to start. Using home automation can assist you in controlling everything from door locks to security cameras to smoke alarms. By using home automation that links to your phone, you receive real-time alerts that can help you respond quickly to potential threats. We like using our home automation systems to schedule our lights, talk to guests through a smart doorbell or check in on our carbon monoxide alarms.
15. Consider security cameras.
Many burglars have been named and shamed through security camera footage. This is one of the best ways to prevent burglary due to burglars not wanting to be caught on video. You can use security cameras as part of your home automation system, or you can purchase standalone cameras. Features to look out for when buying a security camera include night vision, motion detection and weatherproofing.
If you require help regarding further information on how to protect your home from burglars, our friendly customer support team will be happy to assist you. Now that you’re armed with tips and tricks on how to update your home security to prevent burglary, why not take a browse at our handy lock measuring guides?