Top tips to keep the things you love safe and secure
Keep your keys in a safe place, away from doors and windows, and don’t hide them in predictable places like plant pots or under doormats.
Strong, good-quality doors and exterior security lights are sensible investments; if possible, install motion sensor lights at the front and back of your property.
If you can, invest in a home security system – there is a lot of anti-theft technology out there, from simple alarms to sophisticated CCTV systems, so take your time to shop around and find what works for you.
Remember to keep your security codes secret and change them regularly. Avoid picking obvious ones like your birthday.
Maintain your doors, windows, and locks regularly.
Change locks immediately if you lose your keys, or when you move into a new home.
Get involved in a local neighbourhood watch scheme or make friends with some of your neighbours – people tend to look out more for each other in close-knit communities. This can also be useful when you are on holiday.
Going away for a while?
Keep all doors and windows locked- this includes any small, up-high windows.
Keep your valuables, such as jewellery and cash, in a safe in your home.
Ask someone you trust to pick up your mail and deliveries if you are away for a long time.
Set your lights and some small appliances, such as your TV or radio, to switch on sometimes – if you don’t own smart devices, automatic timer switches can help you do this.
Avoid posting publicly on social media about your holiday until you return.
Don’t forget your outbuildings – lock, hide, mark
Always keep your sheds and garages locked – use strong padlocks and wire mesh or grills for windows.
Keep your tools and valuables locked away securely. Tools can be locked inside a locker or box or secured with a chain.
Secure your bike to the ground or a lockable stand or ground anchor.
Cover your bikes, mowers, and ladders with old sheets to keep them out of plain sight.
Mark your items and tools with your name and postcode.
Remember: even if you think you don’t keep anything worth stealing in your outbuildings, sheds and garages often contain tools or ladders that thieves could use to break into your home.