Is my home a target for burglars?

Could your home be a target for burglars, without you even realising it? When it comes to home security, there are certain steps you can take to ensure that your home, your family and your belongings are completely protected. You can never be too careful in these scenarios - especially when it’s predicted that a burglary happens every 106 seconds in the UK - so by planning early and getting into the habit of securing your home, you can be rest assured that you’ll minimise the risk of a break in. 

Valuable items on show

Having valuables which can easily be seen through a window can be a massive security risk, as these are more likely to lure a burglar into your home. Technology such as your TV, laptops and game consoles are particularly at risk, alongside expensive jewellery items and car keys. Blinds are a great way to help stop any peeping toms from looking through your window as it makes it more difficult to see from a distance.

Be careful with your ID

You should also be cautious of where you leave your wallet, as not only will this potentially hold money and credit cards, a burglar might also be able to get their hands on your ID. Almost 500 identities are stolen every day in the UK; you can prevent the risk by keeping your wallet on you - in a secure bag - at all times, or you could lock it away in a safe. 

Car security

Speaking of car keys, your car may be your pride and joy. You may want to keep it out for all eyes to see and admire, but that could be the exact risk you don’t need. If you have a garage, it’s best to keep your car inside, or on a driveway with a gate at the very least. And if you do have a garage, make sure your garage security is on point. If you’re not able to have things, you could watch over it on your premises with an outdoor camera.

Lack of physical security measures

Investing in a home security system is essential for protecting your property; with 24/7 professional monitoring providing you with constant reassurance, regardless of whether it’s day or night. Installing physical security in particular areas of your home that contain your valuables - such as our indoor security camera - will act as a major deterrent.  

Forgetting to lock your door and windows

Forgetting to lock your door and windows creates the perfect entrance for a burglar, so it’s something that you should always (and we mean always) double-check. Not only should you be locking all possible entrances when you leave the house, you should be just as cautious even when you’re inside your property. Don’t forget that the risk of a sneak-in burglary is still possible, so don’t let your security measures slip, even when you might think you’re protected. To ensure that your windows and doors are completely secure, you might choose  an Entry Sensor, which will detect if a window or door opens. If the sensor is triggered, it will automatically sound your alarm and send an alert to our professional monitoring centre; if they can visually verify that there’s an emergency, they will dispatch the authorities. 

Damaged windows

Linking in with our last point, windows - as well as doors - make an ideal entrance for burglars. As well as ensuring that they’re locked (and never left on the latch) whenever possible, you should also check for any signs of damage. A cracked window could be easier to break into, so eliminate the risk of a burglary by making repairs as soon as possible. 

Oversharing on social media

We all do it, but did you know that oversharing could increase your risk of burglary? Although your holiday snaps may seem harmless, they can indicate to people that you’re away from home - and an empty home makes for an easier break in. Of course, we’re not saying that you need to put a stop to the shots. Instead, just remain cautious of your followers, limit who has access to your posts, and ensure that your home is equipped with physical security measures to keep your valuables safe while travelling. 

Leaving postal boxes in your driveway 

If you’ve had any deliveries show up at your door recently, don’t let your excitement cloud your vision. Leaving an empty box out in the open could indicate to burglars that your home contains valuables - which is a definite no-no. Prevent a burglar from being lured inside by either keeping your empty boxes inside until collection day, or take them straight to the tip. By improving your doorstep and parcel security, your home will be much less likely to be a target for burglars. 

An unsecure garden

How secure is your garden? If you regularly forget to move your outdoor valuables into your garage after use, your home could become a target for burglars. Make sure you lock up your garage after you’ve finished working outside, and to take additional precautions; invest in an outdoor security camera to keep a constant eye on your garden and driveway with an ultra-wide 140° field of view. For more advice on this, head over to our in-depth guide to garden security.

Here at SimpliSafe, we want to ensure that both you and your family feel safe and protected. For more advice on how to enhance your home security, and how to set up your customisable security system today to minimise the risk of burglary, get in touch with us.