A Tempting Time For Domestic Burglars

With Christmas now just 11 weeks away, many people are already filling their homes with expensive gifts for loved ones, making this a tempting time for domestic burglars.

As the third week of National Home Security Month begins, organisers of the campaign are urging people to protect their valuables, including any Christmas gift purchases, from theft.

Computers, cash electrical goods and jewellery are among the most commonly stolen items in domestic burglaries and, as a result of our love for gadgets, the average cost of a burglary has risen by 40% over the last three years. With the latest game consoles, phones or tablets at the top of many Christmas wish lists, homes across the UK provide rich pickings for burglars at this time of year.

However, it is not just festive purchases that are at risk as 21% of people say they never hide their own personal valuables when leaving the house, with 37% leaving portable gadgets such as e-books or tablets easily accessible.

David Herbert, from National Home Security Month lead sponsor Yale, said: “Home security is more important than ever at this time of year and there are a number of ways you can protect your home from falling prey to opportunistic criminals.

“To protect smaller valuable items and reduce the risk of fraud, use a home safe. This can be used for items such as jewellery, small electronic gadgets, important documents and gift receipts, but make sure you bolt it securely to a wall or floor so it can’t be stolen.

“Alarms also offer an effective visual deterrent. Statistics show that 60% of burglaries attempted on homes with alarms are unsuccessful. However, 71% of homes still don’t have a working burglar alarm so if yours is one of them it’s worth getting one fitted.”

Visit www.homesecuritymonth.com for more information.