How vulnerable is your home

There are many different reasons why a burglar may break in to your home, although some are opportunistic whereby they will take the opportunity when it arises i.e. a door or window is left open, others will scope out your property beforehand. Therefore it is important to evaluate the security of your home to ensure your home isn’t targeted by a burglar whether it is opportunistic or pre-planned.

Ask yourself the following questions when evaluating the security of your home:

·         Are the locks on any doors and windows visible?

By making sure these are visible will help to deter a burglar as they will be able to see it will be harder to break in.

·         Are any doors or windows left open, even if it isn’t easy to access them?

Make sure all doors and windows are locked before leaving your home.

·         Ensure all your windows are locked and closed at night

When closing up your windows for the night ensure they are all locked and securely shut. If any small top windows are accidently left open or open to let in cold air overnight a burglar can easily reach through and open a large window internally.

·         Do you have any lights with sensors fitted to the exterior of your property?

Fitting lights with sensors to the outside of your home will ensure your home is well lit if an intruder was to approach your property. These will not only help to alert you and your neighbours but may deter an intruder from breaking into your home as they tend to be confident when working in the dark.

·         Is the front of your home visible from the road?

Having high walls and hedges can give a burglar protection from being seen therefore making sure your home is visible is important.

·         Is accessing your home noisy?

Consider having gravel placed on your driveway as it is impossible to walk on gravel without making a noise. The more difficult you make it for a burglar to access your home without making a noise the less likely you are to be a victim of burglary.

·         When you are on holiday or away from your home is it obvious that your home is unoccupied?

Make sure that when you are going to be away from your home for a long period of time that you do the following:

-          Ask a trusted neighbour, friend or family member to keep an eye on your home whilst you’re away. Ask them to open and close curtains etc so that it appears that your home is occupied.

-          Cancel any deliveries such as the newspaper or milk.

-          Use the Royal Mail’s Keepsafe service to hold any letters or parcels whilst you’re away to avoid any post piling up whilst your home is unoccupied.

·         Are there any ladders or equipment lying around that can be used by a burglar to gain entry to your home?

Make sure that any ladders or equipment that could be used to break in to your home are stored securely in a locked garage or shed.

Make sure you check out www.keytekshop.co.uk’s wide range of burglary deterrents to protect your home from opportunistic burglars!   

How to prevent distraction burglary

What is distraction burglary?

Distraction burglary is when an intruder calls at your home posing as a tradesman or someone asking for your help with something. They will make up any kind of story in order to gain entry to your home as they have only one intention, to steal!

Common lies an intruder will say to convince you to let them into your home:

• “I’m from the ‘Water Board’, there’s a leak down the road I need to check your water supply.” – Don’t be fooled this will never be true as the phrase ‘water board’ is no longer a phrase used by legitimate organisations.
• “I need to read your meter.” – Always check with your utility supplier that this is a legitimate representative before you let them and check that they carry identification. Some suppliers operate a password scheme.
• “We’re the police, we’ve caught a burglar, we think he’s stolen your cash and we need to check your money is safe.” – A genuine police officer will never do this. Under no circumstances should you let them into your home. 

No ID? No way!

A genuine representative or trader will always be more than happy to show you their identification. An ID card will confirm who they are and the company they work for. If they refuse to show you their ID or stop you from examining it more carefully, shut the door and phone the police on 999 immediately. Police across the UK are urging members of the public to report any rogue traders that may be operating in your local area to reduce the risk of doorstep crime and distraction burglary. 

Download our 'Bogus Caller Initiative' sign by clicking the image below to deter rogue traders or a potential intruder... 

    

Rogue Traders – Do’s and Don’ts 

 

• Don’t ever go to a bank or cash point with a trader; legitimate traders would never do this!
• Don’t allow anyone to pressure you into agreeing to have work carried out. If you ask them to leave and they don’t, call the police dial 999.
• Do discuss any work you feel needs carrying out on your property with a relative or friend who can help you find a reputable trader.

If you suspect a bogus caller call 999 immediately and report it to the police.

(Source: Wycombe District Council)

 Book a CRB checked local locksmith by calling 0800 035 0451 or visiting www.keytek.co.uk