DNA Security December 19, 2018 News
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The long and dark nights of winter are a burglar’s dream. They provide a longer period of darkness that they can operate under and provide ample opportunity for them to act – it is dark sooner yet still quiet in the neighbourhood while everyone else is still at work or out. Don’t despair though! There are plenty of things you can do to reduce your chances of being burgled and to deter would-be burglars from targeting your property. Here are some basic and easy-to-implement tips to help you stay safe this winter.

  1. Lock your windows and doors. Sounds obvious, but it isn’t something we all do as a habit as soon as we walk in the door. We are usually vigilant about locking up before we leave the house or go to bed, but while burglars prefer to act while we’re out, they can and do open an unlocked front door and walk off with the valuables that are sitting out in our living rooms while we are in the kitchen or bedroom. Get into the habit of locking the door as soon as you walk in, no matter how soon you’re planning to pop out again.
  2.  Let there be light. Keeping the lights on will give the impression that someone is home even if they are not. And light is not something that burglars like as the chances of being seen are much higher. Get timers to turn your lights on as soon as it’s dark. If you can, set any porch or outdoor lights on a timer too, but if not then invest in sensor lights that will come on when there is movement. This way you can flood your entrance with light, scaring off anyone trying to break in. As an extra bonus, it can help you find your keys in your bag to unlock your own door when it’s pitch black outside.
  3.  Don’t hide keys outside. It may be tempting to do so, but burglars are savvy to all the likely hiding spots – under the mat, inside the flowerpot… You name it, they’ve already found it. If you must have a spare key handy, then leave it with a trusted neighbour instead.
  4.  Lock up the shed. We use our sheds less during the winter months but they could still hold valuable tools that are worth something to a burglar. Remember to keep the shed locked with a secure lock, and maybe even an extra padlock too.
  5.  Keep your garden tidy. Bushes and trees can be used to hide behind, so make sure yours are well trimmed and tidy so no one can lurk in the shadows waiting for you to leave the house. Put away any tools as well so that they are not used to pry open doors or break locks or windows to gain entry.
  6.  Keep valuables locked away. If a burglar does manage to get in, you want them to get away with as little as possible. Keep a hidden safe, ideally one that is bolted to a floor or wall that cannot be carried off, and store any jewellery, cash, and other valuables in it.
  7.  Get an alarm. There are so many options on the market today that you are bound to find one that meets your needs and works within your budget. An alarm is a sure-fire way of scaring off any would-be burglars who try to get into your home.

If you are thinking of installing a security alarm talk to us! Our DNA Security team is experienced and here to help you find the right one for you. Give us a call on 01424 718 844 and we will make sure your property and loved ones are safe at all times.