Home is where the heart is, but it’s also where a lot of your valuable possessions are too. In recent months, we’ve all been spending far more time at home than usual. This makes now a great time to review your home security to make sure your property isn’t vulnerable to criminals. After all, being the victim of crime in your own home goes far beyond the financial implications, as it can be emotionally distressing too.
Here are our top tips on home safety and security mistakes to avoid to reduce the chances of your home being the target of criminals.
Advertising Your Holiday’s On Social Media
Everyone has been guilty of this at some point. Whether it’s an airport check-in or being tagged in a photo by the pool – it’s good to remember who is actually viewing this information. While you can take steps to enhance your social media privacy, you still can’t be too careful. If all your contacts know your property is vacant because you’re thousands of miles away, this leaves your home a prime target for burglars. Whatsmore, it could even invalidate your home insurance too.
Not Installing CCTV
As a nationwide installer of CCTV systems, we’re bound to be a little biased on this one and for good reason. That’s because CCTV can provide vital evidence should your home be broken into or if criminal damage occurs. But before it can get to that stage, CCTV allows you to monitor any suspicious activity. RE:SURE’s systems even allow for remote cctv monitoring, meaning we will call the police on your behalf if we notice anyone or anything that shouldn’t be there.
No Security Light
If there’s one thing that will put an intruder off when they walk up your drive, it’s a big bright light shining in their face that exposes their identity. When used in conjunction with CCTV, it’s even more effective. Security lights use a motion sensor, so when movement is detected the light will activate. This will give you a very clear picture of who is out there so you can take action if necessary.
Low Fencing
While lower fences allow you to stay social with your neighbours, they aren’t the best idea in terms of security. The easier you make it for criminals to be able to scale your fences, the more likely they will do so. If your property also has a side entrance with no fencing blocking off the back garden, this could also leave the back of your property vulnerable, as well as your neighbours. Ideally, fencing should be 6ft high and have security features (such as rubber spikes) installed along the top. Likewise, gates should have a locking facility too.
Leaving Valuables In The Window
Just like you wouldn’t leave valuables out on display in your car, the same applies to your home too. If your property doesn’t have a front garden and the front door opens straight out onto the street, this is even more important. All it takes is a quick glance of some jewellery or a laptop and a thief can easily break in and steal it. On that note, make sure your windows aren’t single glazed either.
To Sum Up
The above is just a snapshot on some of the top home safety and security mistakes to avoid. Ultimately, it’s your responsibility as a homeowner to ensure your property is as safe and secure as it could be. Whether you’re working from home or not, intruders can still strike at any moment. However, by taking the above steps you are far less likely to become a victim of crime in your own home.
Are you looking to install CCTV in your business or home? Drop us a line on IRE 01 691 7100 | UK 028 8676 1183 and our friendly team will be more than happy to help.