Security blog: Trick not treat the burglars this Halloween

The changing of the season from summer to autumn brings with it darker evenings and burglaries will be on the increase again. Claims for burglaries peak in November with Bonfire night the busiest day of the year (up 22%) as families go out to enjoy the celebrations. The darker nights coupled with a mischievous occasion like Halloween presents opportunities that are too good for the criminally minded to resist, leaving your home more at risk than any other time of the year.

Also as much as we all enjoy updating our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts with pictures and checking-in posts, beware of telling the online world when you are not in and inviting burglars to your home. Wait until after the event before posting pictures and revealing information of nights out.

Five tips for securing your home on Bonfire night:

1. Give the impression you are home by leaving a few lights on

2. Keep front boundaries low to remove hiding places

3. Avoid telling strangers who know your address that your home is likely to be empty at any particular time.

4. Do not leave any valuables in your car or in sight of front windows

5. Before leaving home ensure you close and lock all windows and doors

Banham Top 10 Tips for securing your home:

1. Secure all external doors by ensuring you have at least one British Standard (3621) lock 

2. A door chain will prevent any strangers from forcing their way into your home

3. A 'door vue' with a 170 degree field view will give unrestricted vision through the door

4. A 'letterbox protector' will prevent thieves from poking objects through to manipulate locks or retrieve keys

5. A key registration system will provide you with piece of mind knowing that your keys cannot be copied without your consent

6. Ensure all windows have a key operated lock

7. A safe will provide extra protection for valuables and sentimental items in your home 

8. Choose a burglar alarm with an installer that is credited with the National Security Inspectorate (NSI)

9. CCTV is a formidable tool in fighting crime and can be used in court as evidence.

10. Using a 'Key Holding Company' that is SIA approved will offer piece of mind should you be on holiday and you need someone to attend your home

To have Kevin answer your security questions or for a free no-obligation survey email kevintirvengadum@banham.com 

Website: www.banham.co.uk

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