As the evenings grow shorter and the clocks turn back, we're preparing for longer hours of darkness as winter approaches.
Unfortunately, less daylight hours also coincide with an increase in crime, making this a key time of year to prioritise your home security.
There tends to be a spike in burglaries around festive dates like Halloween, bonfire night and at Christmas – occasions when people may be out and about, and properties are left empty. But the reality is, burglars don’t simply wait for Guy Fawkes to go about his business. Any dark night will do. So, it’s important to be prepared.
Home Security Tips
Burglar Alarms
To make life really difficult for would-be thieves, the most effective action you can take to protect your home is to have a burglar alarm installed).
An intruder alarm provides peace-of-mind protection at all times of the year, whether you are at home, out at work or away for extended periods.
If a burglar can see that a property is alarmed, the criminal will be more likely to target a house that has no visible signs of security.
A modern alarm system can be designed specifically for the property requirements including size, configuration and complexity etc. Depending on preference, these systems can also be completely wireless, hard-wired throughout or a combination of the two.
Most intruder alarms are quick and easy to install, with set-up normally taking only a matter of hours.
CCTV
More and more homeowners are now turning their attention to having CCTV cameras installed. The latest equipment, with high-definition night vision cameras, has taken CCTV technology to a whole new level. Offering 24/7 protection, cameras can be used inside or outside the property, depending on the level of security required.
Alarm Monitoring
Of course, the mere sight of a burglar alarm and CCTV signs up around your property should be a sufficient deterrent in their own right. Nevertheless, no system is failsafe. Alarm monitoring however provides that extra layer of protection.
An alarm monitoring system keeps a watchful eye on your property 24/7. In the event of a break-in or suspicious activity on the premises, this will be immediately picked up by the AMC, so the appropriate action can be taken. This might entail a security firm, the police or even a fire department attending the property. All this could happen on your behalf, whether you are at home or away.
Keep Doors and Windows Locked
In support of all the above-mentioned security measures, it’s also important to take basic precautions. That means keeping doors and windows locked and well-maintained at all times. Even if you are in residence, with an unlocked door as an invitation, an opportunistic burglar could be in and out of your property in a matter of minutes – and you probably wouldn’t even realise it.
Protect Garages and Outbuildings
The same applies to garages or garden sheds, where you might have expensive equipment stored like cars and bikes. Don’t forget, if someone breaks into a shed, they could discover a tool which would make it easier to break into the main property.
Security Lighting
Outside security lighting, front and rear is another option worth considering. The last thing a burglar wants is to be lit up like a Christmas tree on the approach to your property!
In Summary
Having a gold standard security system installed in your home is the most enlightened solution to dark night security concerns. A combination of a modern intruder alarm, CCTV cameras and lighting, backed up with sturdy doors, windows and locks is the safest way to see you through the winter months.
With dark nights now on the doorstep and crime figures sadly on the increase, this is the time to give serious consideration to upgrading your home security.
For additional reading, the Police UK website provides plenty of useful information.
For over 30 years, Justice Fire & Security have specialised in the installation of intruder alarms and CCTV equipment. We have fitted thousands of systems to homes and businesses throughout Birmingham, the wider West Midlands and Warwickshire, along with Worcestershire, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire.
Initially, we would always undertake a free site survey at your property before making recommendations regarding the best type of equipment. If you need help with your current home security, call our main switchboard on 0845 468 0927.
