Winter brings shorter days, longer nights and, unfortunately, an increased risk of burglary.
Statistics show a consistent rise in domestic burglaries during the winter months in the UK, with a spike between November and January.
The increase isn’t coincidental. Winter creates perfect conditions for opportunistic thieves.
This blog outlines the most common winter security risks to help you protect your home during the colder, darker months.
Why winter sees more burglaries
Think about your typical winter evening. The sun sets early, often before you’ve even left work. Your house sits in darkness from 4pm, yet you won’t be home until 6pm or later. These extra hours of darkness give burglars more opportunities to work undetected, using the cover of night to target homes just like yours.
The festive season brings its own risks. You might be planning to visit family over Christmas or take a winter break, leaving your home empty. Those beautifully wrapped presents under your tree, visible through your windows, can catch a burglar’s eye. Even your January sales purchases, boxes still visible in your living room, can make your home a tempting target.
Winter weather changes how you interact with your home’s security, too. When you’re fumbling for your keys in the cold or rain, you might not double-check that your front door is locked correctly. On frosty mornings during the school run, you’re probably more focused on getting the kids to school on time than ensuring every window is secure.
New Year’s Eve is another vulnerable time – while you’re out celebrating, burglars know many homes in your neighbourhood will be empty.
These are the times when you’re most likely to overlook basic security measures.
Taking just a few extra seconds to check your locks, even when you’re cold or in a hurry, could make all the difference in protecting your home.
Common entry points in winter
As winter draws in, your home’s entry points become more vulnerable. Those darker evenings can give burglars the cover they need to tamper with your locks or force entry, especially around poorly lit doorways. While you might keep your windows closed against the cold, it’s easy to forget one on its ventilation setting or leave it unlocked after airing a room. One opportunity is all a burglar needs.
Your garage and shed need extra attention during winter months, too. It’s natural to use these spaces less when the weather turns cold, but this means you might not notice signs of tampering for days. Think about how often you properly check your garage or shed in winter? It’s probably less than you realise. The same goes for your back door. When you’re rushing inside from the cold after bringing in washing or taking out bins, it’s tempting to pull it shut without checking it’s properly locked.
Burglars are opportunists who know exactly what to look for in potential targets. If your house is in darkness during the early evening while neighbouring homes are lit up, you’re effectively advertising your absence. Those Amazon parcels piling up on your doorstep? They’re telling burglars no one’s been home to collect them. That empty driveway when your car’s usually there? Another clear sign you’re away.
And in today’s digital world, you might be making your home vulnerable without realising it. Those Facebook posts about your upcoming holiday or Instagram stories from your winter break might seem harmless, but they’re telling burglars exactly when your house will be empty. Before you share your winter holiday plans on social media, think about who might be watching. Why not wait until you’re back home to post those holiday snaps?
Protecting your home
Your home’s security starts with its locks. A professional locksmith like Grays can assess your current locks and recommend upgrades where needed. British Standard locks (BS3621) should be fitted to all external doors. BS3621 is the minimum standard most insurance companies require and provides superior protection against common burglary techniques. For extra security, consider installing a deadlock separate from your main lock, giving you two independent locking points.
Lighting complements good lock security. Install motion-sensor lights above all entry points, including back doors and side gates. This illuminates anyone trying to tamper with your locks. Timer switches on internal lights can create the impression that someone’s home when you’re out, making potential burglars think twice about attempting to pick or force your locks.
Modern security solutions like smart locks can add an extra layer of protection. These can alert you when doors are left unlocked or when someone attempts to tamper with them. However, they should always be installed alongside traditional mechanical locks for backup. Our team can advise on the best combination of conventional and smart security for your property.
What to do if you’re burgled
If you discover a break-in, leave the property immediately and call the police on 999 if you think the intruder might still be inside, or 101 if not. Don’t enter the property or touch anything inside, as you might disturb evidence the police can use to catch the burglar. Wait in your car or at a neighbour’s house until the police arrive.
Once the police have attended and given you a crime reference number, call your insurance company. They’ll guide you through their claims process and might recommend approved contractors for repairs. Take detailed photographs of any damage and make a comprehensive list of missing items, including serial numbers if you have them.
Your next call should be to a professional locksmith. Even if the locks appear undamaged, they might have been compromised during the break-in. Our team can assess the damage, repair or replace broken locks, and recommend security upgrades to prevent future incidents.
If the break-in has left your home unsecured, we offer emergency boarding-up services to make your property safe until permanent repairs can be made.
It’s also worth discussing long-term security improvements while we’re there, as we can identify any vulnerabilities you might not have noticed. We can advise on additional security measures like reinforced door frames, window locks or security lighting that might have prevented the break-in.
Finally, many people feel unsafe in their homes after a break-in.
So, take the time you need to process the emotional impact of the burglary and restore your peace of mind.
How can Grays Locksmiths help?
Winter burglaries may be more common, but they’re not inevitable.
At Grays Locksmiths, we understand the importance of winter security.
Contact us today for a professional security assessment of your property. We offer emergency locksmith services 24/7 throughout the winter months, ensuring you’re never left vulnerable when you need our help the most.