burglary prevention tips to homeowners

 

TO STOP A BURGLAR, YOU NEED TO THINK LIKE ONE!!!

On the whole, Burglary is an opportunist crime. A burglar will choose the easiest target. The simple reason behind is it offers him the best opportunity to be undetected with the least number of obstacles in his way. Any premises that present itself as unoccupied and with no security is far more likely to be targeted than one which is properly secured.

Below is a brief list which makes the perfect target for an opportunist burglar:

  1. Accessible windows open;
  2. An open side gate;
  3. Left out garden tools;
  4. Ladders left out allowing access to otherwise unaccessible windows;
  5. Patio doors without proper security;
  6. High fences or untrimmed hedges preventing natural surveillance.

Residents of multi occupancy flats should be careful and think twice before granting access to strangers via an entry phone system. Be cautious of people gaining access by taligating them into the building.

IS YOUR PREMISES OCCUPIED? ARE YOU TELLING THE BURGLAR YOU ARE NOT IN?

Without realising, we may be inviting an intruder into our homes by showing him signs of a lack of our presence:

  1. Houses unlit after dark.
  2. All windows shut in a very hot weather condition.
  3. A stuffed letter box with mails and newspaper.
  4. Parcels or milk bottles left on the doorstep.

DO’S & DON’TS: THINKING A STEP AHEAD OF THE BURGLAR?

  1. DO keep valuables out of sight at all times, especially near windows.
  2. DO install timers to switch lights or radios on and off automatically when you are away for a long period.
  3. DO have a friend or neighbour to clear your letter box when you are away.
  4. DO encourage a neighbour to park on your drive if you are not going to be at home for few days.
  5. DO check your insurance policy as some contents insurance policies do not cover you if you are away for more than 30 days.
  6. DO cancel all deliveries when you are away.
  7. DO spend a few pounds on a dummy alarm box (may help to deter an opportunist thief) if you do not have security such as security grilles, shutters and gates over your windows and doors.
  8. DON’T leave hidden spare key around your front door, burglars know all the hiding places.
  9. DON’T neglect damaged locks on doors. Ensure all your locks are woking properly.
  10. DON’T label your house keys in case you lose them and ended up in the wrong hands.

For more information on how you can secure your home effectively, please speak to an RSG Expert on 0208 123 1088 or request a call back from our contact us page.