Summer is a time of lighter evenings, warmer weather and summer pursuits such as sprucing up your garden or family barbeques. As we relax out in the sun we often fling open windows and doors to let in some fresh air.

The heights of summer also present heights of opportunity for burglars. Beware!

Here’s how to secure your home during the summer months:

How to Secure Your Home in the Summer

• Do not leave doors or windows open that burglars can easily access - front doors or windows that can open out wide. Get into a routine of checking that all doors and windows are securely locked before going out or going to bed!
• Don’t leave open garage doors unattended. Even if you are working in the garage and need to nip into the house for only a few minutes, lock the garage door before you go.
• Make sure your garden shed is fitted with a quality lock. Thieves often target sheds and outhouses because they offer easy pickings. Expensive equipment is often kept there, such as lawnmowers and power tools.
• Security lights are a great option if your garden is large or your shed is difficult to see from inside the house.
• If possible, bring valuable garden equipment like the barbecue back indoors overnight or when not in use. Store these in your locked shed or garage so that they are not carried off by opportunistic thieves.
• Police recommend property marking your belongings with your postcode or other individual mark.

• You want to make sure your home looks lived in rather than empty whilst you are on holiday.
• Cancel any deliveries of milk and newspapers.
• Put your lights on timer switches to make your home look lived in.
• Ask a neighbour or friend to keep an eye on your home whilst you are away. Give them the contact numbers for your mobile or where you are staying so that they can get in touch in an emergency. Ask them to pop in regularly to clear away your mail from the hallway or to water the plants.
• If you are going to be away for a long time ask a neighbour to mow the lawn.
• You can even ask your neighbour to put out your rubbish when your street is due for the rubbish collection to give the illusion that you are at home.
• Lock away all valuables securely, especially jewellery. Don’t leave laptops on visible display.

How to Secure Your Home from Burglary

• Remember to set your burglar alarm before going out or going away. If you don’t already have a burglar alarm, consider installing one and ensure that it is maintained regularly.

• Be vigilant when strangers knock at the door to offer any kind of service. Never let them into your home. Do not leave your front door open or unattended with the person outside. Always ask to see some form of identification, such as an identity badge. A professional who offers a genuine service -  reading the electric meter for example - will expect to be asked for this.

• Ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your home. Be a good neighbour and keep an eye on their property. If you notice any unusual activity notify the police.

Speak to a specialist in home security today

Our friendly and knowledgable team are ready to take your call and assist you further with any questions you may have. For a FREE site survey, please get in touch with our team today.