The video’s closing point is valuable. Making your home harder to enter than others can keep unwanted guests away.
The summer of 2022 has seen record heatwaves, which can cause a rise in burglaries. A greater number of windows and doors being opened to let in the breeze makes them more likely to be left open.
Other factors could be playing a part, from the financial climate to a return of family holidays. The rate of home break ins when occupants are away is higher than during other periods in life.
A home move can also be a time when behaviour changes and invitational signs could appear. We offer a few tips on security when moving and the value of being prepared before arriving at your new home.
A Need For Care
Crime rates in Surrey have fallen a little over the last decade, although recent months have brought an increase in burglary rates. A few Surrey areas are now seeing an annual rate of 7 break ins per 1000 households.
This is still lower than many UK urban areas but is a sign that we should be careful. Neither should we regard burglary as a highly planned, “professional” activity, of course they happen but most burglaries are opportunist.
There are people scouring neighbourhoods for less than secure points of entry, or signs of absence. Dustbins not retrieved from the entrance gate, parcels left on the porch, lack of sound, or light.
We are not suggesting you should allow security concerns to overtake the enjoyment of your home, just that extra thought can avoid a disturbing experience.
Taking Precautions
Burglaries do happen when people are at home, although few are confrontational. They are mainly sneak thieves taking advantage of open doors, or windows, which can be prevented by keeping those points secure.
Locking windows and latching doors behind you is worth the time, as are a few additions to deter entry when you are not at home. Timer switches are effective, to turn on the odd light, or a radio.
Having someone watch your home and check the property regularly is worthwhile. There are paid services, or a neighbour may be willing to help. They can attend to aspects you hadn’t thought of which make a home look empty.
If your property is going to be empty for some while, you could consider secure storage. A professional service will care for your possessions and the cost of this is not high, far less than loss, or damage.
Should you be moving rather than going away, we will naturally offer advice on keeping secure. A key part of enjoying your new home.
