2017 Saw Home Burglaries Rise by a Third

There were an estimated 261,965 domestic burglaries last year, according to the Office for National Statistics. This is an increase of 32 per cent over 2016 and highlights the continued importance of home security. To ensure that your home is adequately protected, follow these six tips:

  1. Invest in stronger locks fitted on your windows and doors by a certified locksmith. In addition, you should test all locks to ensure that they are secure and in working order.
  2. Inspect door glazing to ensure that the glass panels are at least 6.4 millimetres thick and are either laminated or reinforced with a security film.
  3. Trim plants around doors and windows to ensure they do not provide any protection for potential burglars.
  4. Install motion-activated security lights outside any vulnerable windows and doors, including on your garden shed and garage.
  5. Consider purchasing a burglar alarm and posting signage letting any potential burglars know that your home is fitted with an alarm.
  6. Purchase an ultraviolet security pen and mark all your high-end electronics and valuables with it so you can identify them if they are stolen. You should use an easily identifiable marking, such as your first initial and surname. In addition, you may want to take photographs of items—especially their serial numbers—in order to help the police identify your items more easily.
  7. After making sure your home is safe and secure, check that your home insurance policy offers the same sense of security. Meet with Schofield Insurance Brokers to review your policy and close any potential gaps in your cover.