Christmas; a time when homes are full of gifts – and burglars know it!
After 42 years protecting homes, we’ve put our experience to good use; compiling home security tips to give you peace of mind this Christmas.
1. Christmas Lights
The rising cost of energy has made people think twice about leaving a light on but without one your house can look empty & an easy target for burglars. Police and neighbourhood watch schemes suggest you leave a light on, or use timers, so it looks like somebody’s at home.
Outdoor Christmas lights look festive but avoid threading them through an open window as this gives burglars an easy way in. Make sure you can secure your doors and windows.
2. Secret Santa
Avoid leaving gifts anywhere where they can be tempting for opportunists thieves. Some people leave them in the car or shed – but they could be easily seen and taken. Instead choose somewhere secure and out of sight.
Posting on social media about gifts you’ve bought could make your home a target for burglary. Similarly, if you check in at a carol concert or meal out, you could be advertising that your house is empty. It’s advisable to save your photos to post when you’re back home. This also applies to Christmas holidays!
3. Fake Santa
Be on your guard for Christmas scams. Avoid clicking links you’re sent and don’t hand over personal information or bank details. Be wary of online shops you’ve never heard of and “too good to be true” offers. Remind vulnerable neighbours or family members to be wary of fraud.
4. Christmas Wrapping
It’s not just gifts but packaging outside your house could advertise your new goods to thieves. Leaving a stack of branded or labelled boxes outside by the recycling bin tells burglars exactly what they can find in your home and could make your house particularly appealing to criminals. Use CCTV to deter criminals and provide evidence of parcel deliveries. You could order parcels to collection points to avoid a missing parcel scenario.
5. Tis the season to set your house alarm.
We advocate for always switching your house alarm on; at night when you go to bed, and during the day when you’re out. Not only do burglars avoid homes with security systems in place, but a ringing house alarm should scare off an intruder as it makes so much noise and attracts attention.
Keybury Fire and Security are a family run business based in Keighley since 1982. We install and maintain home intruder alarm and CCTV systems to the highest standards, as our NSI GOLD rating and 5 star customer reviews will testify. Our mission is to make people feel safe and secure and we pride ourselves on our commitment to and care for our customers, some of whom have been with us for over 35 years.
For a free home security survey contact us on 01535 661197 enquiries@keybury.co.uk or use our online scheduler to book your appointment.