Christmas Security Hints and Tips

Christmas is upon us and as we all patiently wait to see what presents lie under the Christmas tree unfortunately so are many potential intruders, looking to take advantage of the busy social schedules and expensive items on show in homes all across the country.

Research shows that burglars do take a day off on Christmas Day however during the winter months statistics reflect that thefts increase by a massive 20%! Unfortunately, it’s not just homes that are targeted, many fraudsters attack on-line to take advantage of the surge in on-line shopping during December. Christmas is a time to enjoy ourselves, spending time with much loved family and friends, along with all the festive activities we attend around this special time of year. We have put together some helpful hints and tips below to help keep your home and Christmas gifts safe ready to be received on Christmas Day.

1. Christmas Gifts
Try to keep any expensive items out of view of windows and passersby on the street. It’s best to hold off until Christmas Eve on placing any items under the tree. Following the excitement and unwrapping our Christmas gifts we are all left with the vast amount of packaging and boxes that these items come in, whilst we will be quick to get these outside and into the bin it is worth bearing in mind that these can act as adverts to potential intruders, letting them know what valuable items lie inside your home, it is best to set the boxes aside and take these out on the morning the bins are due for collection, or taking them directly to your local dump.

2. Lock all Windows and Doors
During the frantic rush of Christmas we are often in and out of our homes in a hurry trying to get things in order for the holiday which can sometimes mean we become forgetful. Try to stay aware and ensure when leaving your home that all of your windows and doors are closed and locked securely. Pause for a moment, check and check again!

3. Home security
If you don't already have security cameras, it’s a great idea to install some form of home security system. Many potential intruders are opportunists and may take advantage of a target if it arises, a home security system is a fantastic way to deter burglars and keep an eye on your property if you are away.

4. Out shopping
Be alert and aware when out shopping especially in overcrowded busy city and town centres. Try not to have expensive jewellery on show and ensure your purse or wallet are hidden from view. If your’re shopping with lots of bags full of gifts try and stay alert for approaching strangers, many potential thieves may be looking for easy targets to pick pocket.

5. Christmas Shopping
Don't leave presents or valuables on view in your car. If you’re out shopping and have too many bags to carry it’s easy to quickly nip back to the car to drop these off and continue shopping without a second thought. With this in mind, always park your car in well lit, visible areas ideally in a car park with security cameras or guards where your vehicle will be on show, clearly visible and less likely to be targeted by thieves.

6. Buying online
If you’re shopping online it’s good to do your research, if something looks too good to be true it quite often is. Many online criminals will try to take advantage of Christmas shoppers with fly-by websites looking to take customers banking details. Always double check the product and look for websites that offer secure payment like paying with Paypal.
Be mindful when using social media promotions to buy products, a lot of social posts may be unverified and promoted from an unknown website and can use shortened url's to disguise this. If you are looking through social media for deals be sure to use official pages - these will often be verified by a blue tick and have a direct link to the company's website or other social media channels.

7. Social Media
Whilst we can all be swept up in the excitement for the much anticipated Christmas party or perhaps that holiday away over the festive period it is worth keeping in mind that putting these details across social media will advertise that your property will be unoccupied for a certain period and not everyone reading those details will be wishing you a Merry Christmas and to enjoy your time away.

Avoiding a repeat burglary

Did you know that one in four burglary victims have had their home targeted again after the burglary occurred (Victim Support)?

Unfortunately as figures suggest if you were to be burgled a second time it is likely to be by the same person as they will often believe if they didn’t get caught the first time they won’t get caught the second time therefore your home is more likely to be targeted again. He or she already knows the layout of your home and will most likely wait until you have replaced any stolen items.

If you have already been a victim of burglary, you should take action to prevent it from happening again...

1. Review the security of your home

Take a look round and use the Home Security checklist which you can download here to review the security of your home. Alternatively call a local locksmith on 0800 035 0451 to book in a home security and insurance compliance check.

2. Replace all damaged locks

Make sure any locks on doors or windows that were damaged as a result of the first burglary are replaced by a locksmith. This will also be the best opportunity for you to upgrade your locks to ones that will help to protect your home should a burglar strike again such as the ABS High Security Euro Cylinder. The ABS High Security Euro Cylinder is designed to prevent a burglar from using the snapping method to gain entry on an uPVC or double glazed door.

  

3. Fit lights with motion sensors

Have motion sensing lights fitted to the outside of your home so that the exterior of your home and garden is well lit. This will act as a great burglary deterrent as they are often more confident in the dark.

4. Fit an alarm system

Yale has designed a range of alarms called the ‘Easy Fit Range’ which will allow you to easily install a DIY home alarm system. Each product in the range harnesses pre-programmed wirefree technology and comes with Velcro strips so you don’t have to drill into your wall.  The range is available in four different kits, alongside a range of accessories so that you can tailor your alarm system in order to suit the security of your home.

5. Join your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme

You can find your local Neighbourhood Watch by visiting www.ourwatch.org.uk

Garden Home Security

Keep your garden and home secure by taking these simple home security steps...

1. Keep your garden tidy

Keeping your front garden tidy and secure could help to prevent a break-in. Generally a tidier garden will deter an intruder from even trying to break-in your home as it gives the impression your home may be more secure and harder to break into where as an untidy garden could give the opposite impression.

2. Trim your hedges

Trim back any hedges and make sure the front of your house is clearly visible from the road as a burglar will be more confident if they cannot be seen by your neighbours or any passersby. Gates, fencing, walls or hedges shouldn’t be more than 1 metre high.

3. Use gravel pathways

Using gravel for pathways will be impossible for an intruder to walk on it without making a sound and will help to alert you to their presence.

4. Fit lights with motion sensors

Have motion sensing lights fitted to the outside of your home. This will act as a great burglary deterrent as they are often more confident in the dark.

5. Make sure your shed or garage are secure

Garden sheds and garages are often an easy target for a burglar as they are often over looked in terms of security. The contents of a shed can add up to hundreds of pounds especially if you are using it to store valuables such as lawn mowers, strimmers, tools and bicycles. Therefore it is definitely worth investing in additional security for your shed or garage.

• Where appropriate fit additional security such as a padlock, padbolts, hasp and staple.

• A wireless alarm can also be fitted, although this won’t be connected to your home’s burglar alarm system the siren will alert you and the neighbourhood when a burglar has tried to break-in.

• Where there are windows fit curtains so a burglar cannot see the contents of your garage or shed.

Flats and Apartments Home Security

Keep your flat and apartment secure with these handy home security tips!

1. Get the locks changed

When moving into a new flat or apartment it is important that you have the locks changed. Failure to do so could result in your home being vulnerable to a break-in by someone who may have obtained a key during the previous ownership or tenancy. If the property is rented always make sure you seek the landlord’s permission before changing the locks.

2. Communal door security

When evaluating the security of the communal entry to your flat or apartment building always make sure that fire regulations take precedence and if you are in doubt of this the Police advise contacting your local Fire Officer and your local police Crime Prevention Officer.

3. Fit a wireless alarm

It is always a good idea to think about what additional home security can be fitted to ensure you are taking the necessary precautions to protect your home and equally as important yourself. As part of the ‘Easy Fit’ range, Yale has developed an alarm specifically designed for those living in a flat or apartment. The Yale Easy Fit Apartment Alarm is a keypad operated system that when triggered a loud internal siren will sound and alert others of an intrusion.

4. Fit a letterbox guard

A letterbox guard or cage will help to prevent an intruder from using a letterbox to gain access to your flat or apartment. It will also help to prevent a method used by burglars to gain entry called ‘key fishing’ where they will use some sort of makeshift device, usually made from household items, to fish your keys from your door lock or where they are hung up.

5. Fit a door viewer

Have a door viewer fitted so you can see who is calling before opening the door which helps you to keep out any unwanted visitors.      

Top Five Home Security Products

Protect your home with these handy home security products.

1. Philips Hue Wireless Bulbs Starter Kit (£179)

The Philips Hue Wireless Bulbs Starter Kit contains everything you would need to control the lighting in your home from a device such as a smart phone or table.

Hue lights, bulbs and LED strips allow homeowners to control the lighting in their home via the Hue app (Free). The Hue app allows the user to turn the lights on and off, adjust brightness and change the colour all from your smart phone and tablet. Lights can even be automated to turn on and off at times that suit you which acts as a great burglary deterrent.

2. Yale Easy Fit Alarm Range (ranges from around £150 - £500 dependant on model) 

Yale has designed a range of alarms called the ‘Easy Fit Range’ which allows homeowners to easily install a DIY home alarm system. Each product in the range harnesses pre-programmed wirefree technology.  The range is available in four different kits, alongside a range of accessories so that you can tailor it to suit the security of your home.

3. Ring Video Doorbell ($199)

The Ring Video Doorbell is a wireless doorbell that allows you to answer your door from your iOS or Android phone by connecting to your WiFi. A wide angled HD camera with motion detection allows users to see who is at their door and sends an instant alert to your smart phone.  

4. Fake TV (£19.99)

Fake TV is a home security product which gives the illusion that someone is at home watching TV. The home security product is programmed to automatically turn on when it is dark outside to act as a burglary deterrent.

5. iSmartAlarm Home Security System (£199.95) 

The wireless iSmartAlarm Home Security System puts you in control—thanks to do-it-yourself in-home installation and self-monitoring and control from the iSmartAlarm app on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Even better, there are no monthly fees or contracts.

Protect your home from being hacked

Over the last few years technology has advanced to encompass applications that allow you to control every aspect of your home including the security such as the locks on your doors and windows, making homes literally smarter. Whilst this Smart Home technology may give you more control of your home in one simple application or device, it can also give hackers the key to your home and personal life.

Protect your home and your devices from being hacked with these handy tips:

1. Secure your WiFi

When you have your WiFi installed by your provider it is advisable to change the default login name and passwords and turn on WPA or WPA2 encryption (if you haven’t already done so it is worth doing this now). Instructions for your router may vary; so visit the manufacturer’s website to find out how.

2. Ensure the firmware for your router is up to date

Again this varies according to the make and model of your router. The manufacturer’s website will have information on the best practice for updating any firmware; some may even allow you to set an automatic update.

3. Register your new router

Register your router with the manufacturer, either online or via post so that you will be notified when a security update is available.

4. Install antivirus software

Any PCs, Macs, tablets or smart phones in your home should be protected using antivirus software. Some providers offer a multi-device package such as Norton’s ‘360 Multi-Device’ that will protect all the gadgets in your home.    

Although malware that targets smart phones and tablets is rare, it is still worth ensuring that you are protected if the worse was to happen. Browse through the top iPhone security apps or alternatively browse the top Android security apps to find one that suits your device.

Make sure that any antivirus software you do install is up to date.

5. Use strong passwords

The majority of devices can only be protected through a password which is why it is important to ensure that the one you are using is strong and secure.

Learn how to create a strong password with Google...

6. Secure the security inside your home

Whilst it is still very important to protect your online security it is also just as important to think beyond the internet and think about how you can protect your home. Cameras are a great way to protect your home but if they are operated via your WiFi or through an IP address it is definitely worth taking the above steps to ensure they are secure. By not ensuring these are secure you could be allowing a burglar to use your own security equipment to spy on you.

Remember any technology you use to secure your home can be hacked so make sure you take the necessary steps for not only your home security but also your peace of mind.

Did you change the locks after you moved home?

Surprisingly many of us fail to change the locks after moving home and are subsequently unaware of the fact we are potentially leaving our new home vulnerable to a break-in by anyone who may have obtained a house key during the previous ownership.

In 2013 we carried out a survey and found that 74% of homeowners in Britain didn’t call a local locksmith to change the locks when they moved into a new property. All participants in the study were asked whether they had changed the locks to their new home within a fortnight of moving in. The study found that people located in the south of the UK were more security conscious than those living in the North and Scotland, 35% of Southerners said they did get their locks changed, compared to just 20% of people located in the North of England and Scotland.

The majority of insurance companies will encourage you to change the locks on your new home as a basic home security measure as many policies will not pay out if an intruder lets themselves in with a key, usually a policy will specify there must be clear signs that a break-in has occurred. Therefore by not getting your locks changed after moving home you could run the risk of invalidating your home insurance policy.

Changing your locks after you have moved house is easy!

Simply call a local locksmith on 0800 035 0451 and pre-book a locksmith to change the locks on your new home.

The Future of Home Security

Home Security is literally getting smarter!

As technology has advanced increasingly over the last few years we are seeing more and more advances in the way we can secure our homes from an intruder.

For years we have dreamed of the idea of a fully functional smart home, the idea has even been depicted in movies i.e. the technology depicted in Back to the Future II such as keyless entry. Although the movie may not have exactly predicted the future for us i.e. hover boards, you may be surprised by the kinds of technology that are available to homeowners in 2015, right now you can control your heating and lighting from your smart phone or even text your fridge.

According to Mashable: “Right now we're seeing a myriad of independent smart appliances, but eventually these products will be programmed to work in tandem ... hence, the "Smart Home." Yes, there are smart Samsung refrigerators, and yes, there are smart Sony televisions -- but can they, or will they ever, be able to communicate with each other? If and when they do, the adage "If these walls could talk" will take on a whole new meaning.”

Already we are seeing ‘smart locks’ that allow a homeowner to open their front door using just their smart phone. Some of which even allow the user to let in guests when they are not at home. The ‘August lock’ was launched by an American Company in 2014 and is a keyless entry system which uses Bluetooth.

As well as different types of keyless entry we are also seeing numerous home security apps being introduced to the market which allow you to control different parts of your home from either your phone or tablet. Although these sound great there are some reservations that have been raised by technology experts, in 2014 a study was carried out by HP to see whether these apps could be vulnerable to hackers. The security Company found that the biggest concern with these types of apps is the fact that the majority (8 out of 10) didn’t require consumers to use hard-to-hack log-ins which could leave their home vulnerable to being hacked.

To infinity and beyond!

In 2014 Apple announced that they are working to develop a product called ‘Homekit’ which will allow homeowners to control lights, locks, cameras, doors, thermostats, plugs and switches. Although this is still very much in development other manufacturers are already building products to encompass Apple’s ‘Homekit ‘.

Who knows what the future holds for our home security but we are sure it’s only going to get smarter!

Home Security and Home Insurance Requirements

When you take out a policy for your home with any insurer they will usually ask you to ensure that the security of your home meets their requirements.

Why is it important to meet my home insurance provider’s requirements?

When assessing your home security it is important to consider which steps you should take to ensure you are meeting the requirements set by your home insurance provider. This is important as failure to meet these terms and conditions could result in your home insurance policy being invalidated should the worse happen. 

The Crime Prevention Website gives the following as examples of the requirements the majority of home insurance providers will ask a policy holder to meet *:

*Please be aware the examples given may differ to your own policy, therefore before making any changes to the security of your home it is advised to check your current policy for any requirements set by the insurance provider.

Final exit door i.e. your front door – The majority of policies will require that your final exit door (i.e. the main external door you use to access your home such as your front door) should have the following fitted:

• Is fitted with a mortice deadlock with at least 5 levers; or is fitted with a lock conforming to BS3621: 1998 or to a higher specification.

• Additionally where a door is double-leaf, the first closing leaf must be fitted with top and bottom key-operated security bolts.  Bolts must be positioned vertically so as to enter the framework of the door, not the opposing leaf.

Single external doors (such as a porch door) – A single external door should be fitted with one of the following:

• Fitted with key-operated security bolts at the top and bottom.

• Fitted with a mortice deadlock with at least 5 levers.

• Fitted with a lock conforming to BS3621: 1998 or to a higher specification

French/Double doors – French or double doors should be fitted with two key operated security bolts at the top and bottom of the final closing door or, if not rebated, to both doors.  The bolts must be positioned vertically, so as to enter the top and bottom of the door frame, not the opposing leaf.

Sliding Patio Doors – In order to adhere to your home insurance policy, sliding patio doors should be fitted with an ‘anti-lift device’ such as the ERA Patio Door Bolts in order to prevent the doors from being lifted off their running tracks by an intruder when they are closed. They should also have either of the following fitted:

• Fitted with two key-operated patio door locks on the inside of the doors at the top and bottom of the frame.

• Fitted with a key-operated multiple locking system having at least two locking points.

Windows – All opening ground floor/basement windows and all windows that are accessible from another part of the exterior such as a roof, wall or balcony must have at least one key operated lock fitted. 

Most common items targeted by burglars and burglary deterrents

Your belongings may mean a lot to you but to an intruder they’re just a way of making quick and easy cash. 

Organisation the CSEW provides information on most common valuables that are stolen during a burglary. 

Most common items stolen in domestic burglaries (2013/14 CSEW):

• Bag/briefcase

• Jewellery

• Vehicle/vehicle parts

• Clothes

• Mobile phones

• Car keys

• House keys

• Children’s toys

• Tools

• Sports equipment

• Confidential/personal documents

• CDs/DVDs

• Computers/laptops

• Money

The CSEW survey showed that cash has consistently remained a major target for an intruder and continues to be the most commonly stolen item in crimes of burglary and theft, in just fewer than 50% of reported burglaries cash was the most commonly stolen item. However as more and more of us continue to invest in the latest gadgets such as smart phones and tablets these have become a more desirable item for an intruder to target.

Gadgets such as smart phones are being targeted more by burglars simply because they can be easily resold on the stolen goods market and are easier to move than say a TV or desktop computer.

“The targeting of high value items was also clear in domestic burglary in a dwelling where, after purses, wallets or money, the most commonly stolen items were computers/computer equipment and jewellery (stolen in nearly two fifths of domestic burglary incidents). Trends also show how as the value of items changes over time, their appeal as a target of theft also changes. For example, according to the 2013/14 CSEW items such as CDs and DVDs were stolen in just one in twenty domestic burglary incidents compared with around one in five a decade ago.” (ONS 2014)

Protect your home and your valuables

 

A burglar can strike at any time day or night but most burglaries can be prevented by taking steps to ensure your home and your valuables are safe and secure. 

Most burglars are opportunists and in 3 out of 10 burglaries access is gained through an open door or window. Burglars love it when you make their job easier for them. The following steps will make it harder for them and in turn more likely that they will avoid your property.

Routine - Make it a nightly routine to check that all external entry points to your home are locked. In 3 out of 10 burglaries access is gained through an open door or window.

Alarm Systems - Alarms are a great deterrent but a complete home system can cost as much as £2000 with a yearly maintenance cost on top. If you don’t have this sort of money spare you can still give the impression of having an alarm system installed by purchasing a Dummy siren bell box for as little as £13.99.

Ensure your locks are British Standard - Insurance companies will specify that your property must be fitted with British Standard locks on your doors and windows. After a break-in has occurred you may wish to claim on your home insurance in order to cover the costs of the damage caused by an intruder but by not meeting the requirements initially set by your home insurance provider you may run the risk of invalidating your insurance.

What are British Standard locks? - In order for any lock to be classed as a ‘British Standard’ lock they must have been through rigorous testing including strength, durability and of course security, these products are also re-assessed and re-tested to ensure you have complete confidence in the safety, quality and reliability of the locks you have installed in your home. A higher quality lock such as a British Standard lock can act as a great deterrent against burglary as it will make it a lot harder for the intruder to gain entry.

Protect yourself from lock snapping - Intruders will often use various methods and makeshift tools to snap locks in order to gain entry to a home. Euro profile locks (better known as Euro Cylinders) are found in the majority of uPVC doors and are the most likely targets for this type of forced entry. To protect yourself from lock snapping simply upgrade your cylinder to one that is specifically designed to prevent this method of attack, ideally one that meets the TS007 3 star standard, such as ABS High Security Cylinders.

Additional door security - When upgrading your home security you may want to consider having the following fitted to your door to help keep out any unwanted guests:

•    Door chain

•    Spy hole

•   Letterbox guard or cage - a letterbox can be used by an intruder to retrieve any keys stored on the inside of the house therefore these products will help to protect you from ‘keyfishing’.

Secure the perimeter - The type of fencing, hedging or walls around a property can attract or deter thieves. Check for weak spots where a burglar could get into your garden, for example, a low sagging fence or a back gate with a weak lock. A thorny hedge around your home can put burglars off but make sure passers-by can still see the front of your home so a burglar can’t work unnoticed. Think about laying gravel in your garden and driveway as this acts as a deterrent due to the noise created when being walked on.

Secure your shed - Your average garden shed is a treasure trove of valuables such as power tools, bicycles and garden equipment; therefore sheds will often provide easy pickings for opportunist thieves. The majority of sheds will not be strong enough to withstand an attempt to break into them therefore if possible store your valuables in an alternative secure location such as a garage or even your house.

See the steps below on how you can improve your shed security:

•    Upgrade your locks.

•    Have a shed alarm fitted.

•    Mark all valuables stored in your shed either using a UV pen or a DNA marker.

•    Grow prickly plants close to your shed window.

•    Have curtains or shades fitted to your shed window.

Lights - Even though the majority of burglaries occur during daylight hours, a large number still occur during the hours of darkness. Burglars are in search of houses with no one home. To reduce your home's risk of burglary at night, install motion lights on the front and on the rear of your house wherever possible. To be extra cautious, try to position the lights at the corners of your residence so the motion detectors can catch someone approaching from the side. Make sure the lights are positioned at a height that someone cannot disable them by easily reaching up and unscrewing the bulb.

Protect your valuables - Don't leave your valuables (Laptop, jewellery, mobiles etc.) where they can be seen from a window, consider drapes or blinds so that any view of the interior of your home is restricted.

The illusion of being home - If you work evenings or know you are going away on holiday for a number of weeks there are a number of cheaper options available that when used give the illusion that someone is still in the property.

•   Ask a friend or neighbour to open and close curtains.

•   Timer switches for lamps.

•   Fake TV – Simulates the light of a LED TV.

•   Pay for Royal Mail's ‘Keepsafe’ Service to ensure any post you receive whilst you’re away doesn’t pile up; this can be a tell-tale sign that your property isn’t currently occupied.

Locked out of your house?

We all know that being locked out of your home can be an extremely stressful time especially in the colder months. Don’t worry, you are not alone, whether you are locked out during the day or even the middle of the night an emergency locksmith can help.   

What to do when you’re locked out of your house...

Do’s and Don’ts

Don’t try to break in to your own home as you may cause damage to your property and yourself by doing so. 

Don’t call your local emergency services such as the police or fire brigade, they will charge you and may damage your door as they are not trained locksmiths by trade. These types of emergency call outs to these services are said to cost taxpayers more than 5 million pounds a year.   

Don’t force the wooden or uPVC door. This could cause further damage to the door and incur costly repairs. 

Do call your local emergency locksmith straight away on 0800 035 0451.

The emergency locksmith will ask you the following questions...

• Where are your house keys? - Are they inside your property, stolen or lost? If your keys have been lost or stolen you will need to make your local Police Station aware and give the incident number to the locksmith.
• What type of lock do you have on your door? - Is your door uPVC or wooden? Is the lock shoulder height or waist height?
• Is your lock faulty? - If your lock is faulty the local locksmith will ask you to give a brief a description of what is happening when you are trying to unlock your door.

The majority of emergency locksmiths will recommend an average emergency response time of approximately 30 minutes* to ensure that you are not locked out of your property for too long.

Now relax knowing that a skilled locksmith is on their way...

 *where possible

Do’s and Don’ts on what to do when you are locked out of your home... from Keytek Locksmiths

Moving home?

We all know that moving home can be a very stressful time for anyone.  Research has recently shown that the most stressful experience in modern life is buying or selling a property, this means that the majority of Britons are highly stressed from buying or selling a property before they have even moved.   

With so much to organise and remember after the initial stress of buying or selling it is easy for the important jobs such as changing your locks to get overlooked and forgotten.

Last year a survey conducted by Keytek™ revealed that 74% of Britons did not change their locks after moving home, potentially leaving them vulnerable to break-ins by someone who obtained a key during the previous ownership. 

Those who participated in the survey were asked whether they had changed the locks within a fortnight of moving in to their current home...

The survey revealed that people in the South were the most security-conscious; 35% of Southerners said they did get their locks changed, compared to just 20% of people in the North of England and Scotland.

The age group most likely to get their locks changed were those aged 35-54, while the over 55s were found to be least likely to do so.

Changing the locks on a new home is a basic security measure that has long been recommended by leading insurance companies. It is important to change your locks when you have moved house as the majority of home insurance policies state that they won’t pay out if an intruder lets themselves in with a key. For a claim to be valid there must be clear signs of breaking and entering. 

Tips for changing your locks after moving house

• Book a locksmith for the day you are moving by calling 0800 035 0451.

• Get the locks changed on all external doors. In 3 out of 10 burglaries access was gained by a burglar through an open door or window.

• Have British Standard locks fitted to your doors to meet your home insurance requirements. The majority of home insurance providers will require your locks to be British Standard. Failure to meet these requirements could risk invalidating any claims you make if the worse did happen.   

• Check the locks are working on all accessible ground floor windows and make sure that key-operated locks are fitted to meet home insurance requirements; this applies to skylights and roof lights also.  

Top ten tips for when you're locked out

Locked out of house, business or car?

We all know that being locked out can be a stressful time for anyone which is why we have put together the following tips for when you do find yourself locked of your house, business or car.

1. Stay calm! The worst thing you can do is panic and stress yourself out when you’re locked out.
 
2. Where are the keys? Do you leave a spare key with a neighbour or relative? By leaving a spare key with a trusted neighbour or family member you will be saving yourself from being locked out of your home if you did loose or misplace your set of keys. It is still recommended that you contact a local locksmith to change your locks as you don’t know who may have picked up the set you have lost or misplaced.
 
3. Do not fiddle with the lock. This may cause damage to the lock making it more difficult for it to be opened.  
 
4. Don’t call your local emergency services, call an emergency locksmith instead! It was reported in 2012 that fire-fighters in London were being called out nearly every hour (approximately 20 a day) to rescue people who were either locked out of their home or car which is estimated to cost taxpayers more than 5 million pounds. (BBC News) 
 
5. Call a local locksmith. When calling a local locksmith always make sure that you are calling a credible and trustworthy accredited locksmith. All credible locksmiths will carry ID on them so make sure you always ask to see it before you invite them to gain entry to your home!
 
6. Check that any local locksmith coming to your home is DBS checked (formally CRB checked). Any locksmith who has been DBS checked will be more than happy to inform you that they have been.
 
7. Make sure any locks you do have changed by an emergency locksmith are to a British Standard. This is important especially in terms of meeting the requirements set by your Home Insurance Provider.
 
8. Don’t shout about it on any type of social media. It may be tempting to share your latest lockout #fail but remember anyone can see it and shows that you and your property are potentially vulnerable!
 
9. If you have lost or misplaced a set of keys make sure you replace all of the locks that relate to the keys you have lost. This could be your garage lock or a shed. Also make sure you notify anyone who you had a spare key for i.e. a neighbour or work that you have lost or misplaced them so that they can get their locks changed.
 
10. Do not try to cut costs by breaking into your own home! You may cause harm to yourself or damage to your property by doing so.  

Watch our video on the 'Top Ten Tips for When You're Locked Out'...

Summertime Home Security

We’ve all been enjoying the return of the glorious hot weather this week! According to The Guardian the hot weather is set to continue and warm weather is expected for events such as Glastonbury and Wimbledon.

Don’t let your home security lapse this summer!

Unfortunately the exceptionally high temperatures are not great for uPVC or wooden doors as changes in heat can often cause doors to swell or shrink. Potentially, these changes can unfortunately leave your property unsecure, as you may be unable to unlock or worse lock your door, leaving your home vulnerable to break-in. When a door swells or shrinks it’s often a simple case of calling a highly skilled and trained locksmith to fix the problem for you, making ongoing accessibility much easier during those hot summer days, leaving you far less likely to find yourself locked out when you return from a day on the beach!

Problems with your door can be caused by a variety of other factors during the summer; a common cause being simple wear and tear especially when everyone is more partial to popping in and out of the back garden to top up the tan. This can also cause security issues for your home, especially if you’re unable to lock up due to the lock being damaged by continuous use. This problem can also be solved by calling a local locksmith to your home who will be more than willing to fix or replace any locks that have been damaged by wear and tear.  

Also, don’t forget to secure your home even when just popping out to the garden, this includes the window you have left open to catch the rare breeze. Leaving any doors or windows open during a sunbathing session in the garden could leave your home unsecure and pretty much a burglar’s dream of entering your property undetected whilst you’re in the garden.  According to statistics provided in this fantastic UK Burglary report provided by Tesco Compare 73% of burglars use a door to gain entry and in 3% of cases the door was open.   

Watch our Home Security tips video below to find out more about keeping your home secure this summer...

 

Useful links - Locked Out? Lost Keys? Burgled? Locks Changed?

 

Burglary – What is burglary and how can I best protect my home?

What is burglary?

Crimestoppers UK define burglary as “an unlawful or forcible entry or attempted entry of a residence for the purpose of committing a criminal offence, usually theft. Victims of burglary not only lose items of value, some of which are personal or irreplaceable, but the emotional shock of having your property invaded can be deeply upsetting.” (Crimestoppers UK)   

Intruders will look for a number of signs to detect that a home is unoccupied and some may take when the best opportunity should arise i.e. allowing post to build up whilst you are on holiday is a definite sign that your home is unoccupied. 

When are you most likely to be vulnerable?

• When you are away from your home such as being on holiday or even at work.

• When you are at home but either you are busy/distracted or asleep. 56% of burglaries happen at night. (Tesco Compare)

• The Christmas period is usually a vulnerable time of year for any household, as an intruder will know there is a high probability that there are new and expensive presents located inside your home, especially if they can be seen from a window!

Not all burglaries are opportunistic some may be premeditated by an intruder...

What is ‘Distraction Burglary’?

According to Crimestoppers UK, “distraction burglary is a form of burglary where the offenders trick or dupe the occupant or distract them, allowing co-offenders to gain access and commit burglary. The elderly are particularly vulnerable to distraction burglary.” (Crimestoppers UK)  

Thames Valley Police has put together a comprehensive leaflet about ‘Distraction Burglary’ and how best to deal with it. 

How can I best protect my home?

• Try storing bins and ladders away from the property as these might be used to access 1st floor windows.

• Never leave any valuables where they can be seen by a burglar i.e. in view of a window!  

• Don’t discuss any holiday plans on any types of open forums i.e. Facebook or Twitter. Posting details of when you will be away from your property will let any of your followers know that your home is potentially vulnerable.

• Keep out any unwanted guests – it is always a good idea to have a spy hole or door chain fitted as additional security.

• It can be a good idea to leave a light on or on a timer, especially during the darker evenings and if you are spending a night or week away from your home! Leaving a television or radio on is also a good alternative to leaving the lights on. Security products such as a light with a timer can be purchased in most DIY stores and online. 

• If you are going to be away for a long period of time ask the Royal Mail to hold your mail with their ‘Keepsafe™’ service - they will do this for up to 2 months. It is recommended to ask the Royal Mail to hold your letters as this avoids a pile up of post inside the front door which could be an invitation for an intruder as they will be able to see you’re away.  

• Store all sets of keys away from the front door! Whatever time of year it is, it’s always a good idea to have a key hook fitted internally away from the front door. Having a key safe fitted externally to your property may be a preferred option. 

• A letterbox cage/guard is recommended as intruders may use the letterbox to retrieve keys stored inside the house; this type of theft is referred to as ‘Key Fishing’. 

• Lights with sensors in the garden and front of your property will help to deter an intruder as they tend to be more confident when working in the dark. 

• Use a UV pen to mark any valuables, so if the worse was to happen it may help to make recovery easier.

• Check the locks on any gates or sheds and upgrade/replace if necessary. Make sure anything that can be used by an intruder to gain entry to your property, i.e. garden tools, are safely locked away.

• When leaving the property always remember to lock any doors and windows. The majority of intruders will use an unlocked door or window to gain entry to a house.

More security advice and tips can be found on our dedicated page www.keytek.co.uk/security-tips/

Are you aware of the crime levels in your local area?

Visit the ‘How Safe is Your Neighbourhood’ widget to see what levels of crime have occurred in your local area www.keytek.co.uk/crime-stats/national/.

Simply visit the URL, input your Postcode or Town into the dedicated field and click ‘Find’, which will then take you to a map hosted by Police.UK (www.police.uk) that highlightsspecific areas where various levels of crime have taken place, from anti-socialbehaviour through to burglary.

Don’t forget to be security conscious this Easter!

Police Stations across the UK are urging members of the public to be more security conscious during the Easter break.

With many of us travelling or going on holiday during Easter it is important not to let the security of your home lapse as some intruders will watch a home and take action when the best opportunity should arise.

Don’t let a burglary ruin your Easter!

Detective Inspector Andrew Dilworth, of Dorset Police’s Priority Crime Team, said: “If you’re going away for Easter, or even if you’re just going out for the day, please leave your property secure. Also, don’t leave valuable items like jewellery or cash on display in your home. Seeing valuables such as this is all it would take to tempt a burglar.

The Inspector continued: “As the nicer weather arrives, I would like to remind residents to make sure they lock all their windows and doors when they leave – even if it is just for a few hours. It doesn’t take long for an opportunist burglar to strike. It is also a good time for people to check their sheds and garages are properly secure.”

Source: Dorset police

If you see anything suspicious in your local area please contact your local Police Station.
For more information on contacting your local Police Station please visit Police.UK.  

Are you aware of the crime levels in your local area?

Visit the ‘How Safe is Your Neighbourhood’ widget to see what levels of crime have occurred in your local area www.keytek.co.uk/crime-stats/national/. Simply visit the URL, input your Postcode or Town into the dedicated field and click ‘Find’, which will then take you to a map hosted by Police.UK (www.police.uk) that highlights specific areas where various levels of crime have taken place, from anti-social behaviour through to burglary.

As part of our ongoing security initiatives we have put together the following list of security advice and tips...

• Try storing bins and ladders away from the property as these might be used to access 1st floor windows.

• Never leave any valuables where they can be seen by a burglar i.e. in view of a window!  

• Don’t discuss any holiday plans on any types of open forums i.e. Facebook or Twitter. Posting details of when you will be away from your property will let any of your followers know that your home is potentially vulnerable.

• Keep out any unwanted guests – it is always a good idea to have a spy hole or door chain fitted as additional security.

• It can be a good idea to leave a light on or on a timer, especially during the darker evenings and if you are spending a night or week away from your home! Leaving a television or radio on is also a good alternative to leaving the lights on. Security products such as a light with a timer can be purchased in most DIY stores and online. 

• If you are going to be away for a long period of time ask the Royal Mail to hold your mail with their ‘Keepsafe™’ service - they will do this for up to 2 months. It is recommended to ask the Royal Mail to hold your letters as this avoids a pile up of post inside the front door which could be an invitation for an intruder as they will be able to see you’re away.  

• Store all sets of keys away from the front door! Whatever time of year it is, it’s always a good idea to have a key hook fitted internally away from the front door. Having a key safe fitted externally to your property may be a preferred option. 

• A letterbox cage/guard is recommended as intruders may use the letterbox to retrieve keys stored inside the house; this type of theft is referred to as ‘Key Fishing’. 

• Lights with sensors in the garden and front of your property will help to deter an intruder as they tend to be more confident when working in the dark. 

• Use a UV pen to mark any valuables, so if the worse was to happen it may help to make recovery easier.

• Check the locks on any gates or sheds and upgrade/replace if necessary. Make sure anything that can be used by an intruder to gain entry to your property, i.e. garden tools, are safely locked away.

• When leaving the property always remember to lock any doors and windows. The majority of intruders will use an unlocked door or window to gain entry to a house.

More security advice and tips can be found on a dedicated page www.keytek.co.uk/security-tips/