As we come into 2022, the country – and the world as a whole – is still in an uncertain state. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic means we’re all still a little unsure as to how much time we’ll be spending at home over the next few months.
Whenever you’re away from home – and criminals know you aren’t there – your house could be targeted. That’s why we saw a massive reduction in burglaries during the lockdowns.
However, as people start to transition from working from home and back to the office, security should be a top priority. Here are a few security tips you could follow to make your home just that little bit safer this year.
Creating the illusion of your presence
According to a study, the most significant deterrent for anyone wanting to force their way into your house is the presence of people.
If you’re at home (fingers crossed lockdowns don’t come back!), there’s probably nothing to worry about in this regard. However, when you’re out and about or off on holiday, it’s important to do all you can to make your home look inhabited. For example, you could do any of the following:
- Ask a neighbour to park on your driveway.
- Rent out your driveway to a commuter, if applicable.
- See if neighbours, friends or relatives are available to pop over to your house every now and then.
- Get hold of some security lights– either with timers, motion sensors, or both.
- Have some noise coming from your home at all times (perhaps a radio).
Alarm systems
Although they’re such a well-known way to defend your home, alarm systems are still incredibly effective at putting off anyone who considers smashing their way in.
Only 32% of households in Britain have an alarm, according to a recent survey.
An alarm system is an effective deterrent. The box outside your home lets burglars know that any attempt to get in will result in police or security presence in minutes.
In 2012, the same survey mentioned above concluded that 60% of would-be burglars wouldn’t attempt to break into a house with an alarm system. The research also concluded that alarms were most likely to put off premeditated break-ins. Those criminals usually opted for homes without one.
For more fascinating insights into the burglary conclusions of the study, see this questionnaire and its results.
Alarms are a proven way to keep your property safe. If you haven’t yet had the time to install one, now might be the opportune moment.
CCTV security cameras
Security cameras are also a perfect way to tighten up your home security.
If someone does get into your home, they’re an excellent way to identify them – the police, in particular, will find the footage very useful.
More than that, though, CCTV should dissuade most criminals from even trying. If they know there’s CCTV on the property, they know they can easily be caught.
To maximise how effective your security cameras are at putting off potential burglars, ensure you have at least one or two installed in a conspicuous yet difficult-to-reach location. A warning sign explaining that you’re recording everything can also go a long way.
If you’d like help positioning security cameras, don’t be afraid to ask a professional locksmith, who will be more than happy to help you keep your home safe.
Who knows your movements?
While social media has issued in some good aspects, it has also posed huge security risks – to homes, especially.
For example, if your profile is public and you talk about how you live alone and regularly work from 9-5, anyone could pick that information up. If you mention a two-week holiday to Majorca, including the day you leave, someone somewhere could be plotting to use that to their advantage.
Social media isn’t the only risk, too. Word of mouth can have the same detrimental effect.
It’s also not just strangers. Up to half of burglaries are committed by people who know their victim – whether it’s friends, neighbours or the handyman who fixed your pipe last week.
As a result, you should always be very careful who you trust with information about your movements.
How can we at Grays Locksmiths help?
At Grays, we’re all about providing the best locksmith services in the area. When it comes to home security, we have a wide range of options available to keep your house protected against any potential criminals. To name a few:
- Alarm systems
- CCTV installation
- Lock fitting
- Security lighting
- Wrought iron gates
- UPVC door/window repairs
As MLA (Master Locksmiths Association) members, we are subject to the highest skills, conduct, and ethics standards. We are also well qualified, experienced and regularly vetted by independent parties.
All this means that you can trust us to help you – and your home – out. To get in touch with us regarding home security – even if you just have a couple of questions – you can contact us on 0115 942 2315.