Burglars are most likely to be put off breaking into homes by CCTV cameras and barking dogs, while homes with no security measures in place are five times more likely to be burgled than those with simple security measures.

Taking just a few steps can make a big difference in keeping your home safe from burglary. Here are a few tips:

• Lock your doors and windows every time you leave the house, even when you’re just out in the garden, remembering to double-lock UPVC doors (lift handle and turn key)
• Hide all keys, including car keys, out of sight and away from the letterbox (remember a device could be used to hook keys through the letterbox)
• Install a visual burglar alarm (as part of a suite of prevention measures – a burglar alarm on its own will not prevent entry to your home)
• Install good outside lighting – consider the use of LED security lighting
• Get a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property
• Leave radios or lights in your house on a timer to make the property appear occupied
• Make sure the fences around your garden are in good condition
• Secure bikes at home by locking them to an immoveable object inside a locked shed or garage
• Keep ladders and tools stored away; don’t leave them outside where they could be used to break into your home
• Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property
• Ensure rear fencing is in good repair
• Improve natural surveillance at the front of your property i.e. trim high hedges
• Mark your property with postcode and house number and register your property for free with Immobilise(opens in a new window)
• Consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme(opens in a new window)
• Remove valuables from view of ground floor windows
• Store any high value items (i.e. jewellery, passports) in a properly secured safe or bank vault

More Information

Co-Op Insurance Security Tips

The Guardian – Article on Crime Deterrents

Home Security Guide – Police

Crime Prevention Advice from the Police