What Do Burglars Look for?

The majority of burglars find it easier to gain access into properties via back doors, rear windows and from flat roofs. The appearance of an empty house is also very inviting. Having no obvious security such as a burglar alarm, CCTV etc. also makes you an easier target. Open windows and unlocked doors are inviting trouble especially if the house is unoccupied at the time. Do not leave spare keys under bricks, mats, flowerpots, etc If your door is glazed fit a mail box piles of mail on the floor are a good indication that you are away. Lack of curtains, blinds, netting at windows give burglars the opportunity to check if there is anything worth stealing. Leaving empty packaging of expensive items outside the house for dustmen to take away lets people know what you have in your home and more importantly they can see if it is worth stealing. Ladders or garden furniture left outside the house helps the burglar gain access. SECURE THEM WITH A HEAVY CHAIN AND PADLOCK.

Tips for a more secure home

1. Ensure that adequate lighting is fitted especially at the front/back door - Consider Dusk to Dawn lighting with low power consumption bulbs fitted. this is a very effective and fully automatic lighting system with the added bonus of being relatively cheap to buy and run.

2. Covert or Discreet dome style cameras are ideally situated at the front door or in the porch giving excellent security and monitoring capabilities.

3. Fit PIR (Movement activated) flood lamps covering the front access and driveway of the property. All visitors to your door will be illuminated and will also aid vision at night for any installed CCTV cameras.

4. Consider using timers to switch lights on and off in your absence, especially at holiday times so as to give the illusion that someone is at home. Random time periods are better than fixed times.

5. Fit an alarm system ensuring that the siren-box is fitted in a prominent position.

6. Fit a dummy alarm box in order to deter intruders that may be approaching from the rear of the property.

7. Fit security grills where flat roofs give easy access to windows.

8. Install security lighting at the rear of the property and consider garden lighting so that there is no where for burglars to hide.

9. Keep garden sheds securely locked and fit a shed alarm to help protect valuable garden equipment.

10. Install PIR (Movement activated) CCTV cameras to the front and rear of the house. these cameras not only help to protect your car on the driveway but can also help keep an eye on your children playing in the garden.

11. Fit windows locks on all windows and special frame locks to sliding patio doors. Displaying Neighbourhood Watch and CCTV in operation stickers in windows can also act as a deterrent.