HOME SECURITY


DON’T LET BURGLARS RUIN CHRISTMAS


Methods used by criminals may have changed, but the way they select their victims has not. As Christmas approaches and many people plan to be away, Police Sergeant William Davies advises how to keep your home and possessions safe


“If you are going out, close and lock


windows and doors (if you have sash windows, remember the locking bolts) and keep valuables out of reach if you have a letterbox (I recommend a letterbox shroud on the inside of your home),” he added. “Don’t leave anything within view or range


of a thief - they have been known to thrust a stick through the letterbox and hook the keys out. I recommend a Faraday bag if you have remote locking on your car to prevent them stealing it. You might wish to consider a safe, and UV property marking.”


Sergeant Williams also recommends to:


While most people are making plans to celebrate with friends and family this festive season, burglars view Christmas as the perfect time of year to seek out and exploit their victims. It is paramount to remain vigilant. There are plenty of ways you can protect your home and loved ones. “I still remember


my parents’ place being burgled in the ‘90s,” recalled Police Sergeant William Davies. “I came back to a police Panda outside the house, a splintered door frame and broken glass. “Thankfully, no one was hurt but the


hedges and foliage allow burglars to hide? Do you have an alarm? Thieves look for signs of vulnerability they can exploit. Be careful what you broadcast on social media about where you live and when you are away.” Sergeant Davies says gadgets do help


deter thieves.


“I still remember my parents’ place being burgled in the 90s. I came back to a police Panda outside the house in a quiet road: a splintered door frame and broken glass”


“Investing in an alarm is statistically proven


burglar stole my mum’s family silver. We were reminded of this every time we looked at photos of them. It’s a horrible crime, burglary, your precious safe space, violated.” Can you keep criminals out without turning your home into a fortress? Ultimately, Sergeant Davies says, the likelihood of a burglary depends on your profile: where you live, local crime trends, the design and security of your property and vigilance. “Start from the outside and try and look


at your property as if seeing it for the first time. Does the lawn need mowing? Would


34 | POLICE | DECEMBER 2022


to work. Video doorbell and camera systems have become game changers: thieves hate to be seen, so this provides instant reassurance remotely through a mobile phone app that your home and grounds are safe,” he says. “Crucially these systems also possess


a vocal capacity and lighting at night – so you can dually create the illusion of occupancy and speak to anyone at your door. As with anything, do your research and ensure you’re purchasing from a security- accredited company.” Add further layers to your security and don’t let thieves capitalise on your mistakes.


• Add a trellis to increase the height - as burglars are deterred by their fragility and


(usually about 1.8m)


• Use spiky plants to deter climbing • Remember to keep your bin out of sight and behind a locked gate to stop it being used as a climbing aid


the noise they make when climbed over


• Ensure any sheds or outbuildings are locked with shackle padlocks – tamper-


proof hinges and screws are essential


If you are concerned by door and window security and are interested in upgrading, Sergeant Davies recommends reviewing the Secured by Design new homes guide. Secured by Design provide information about security rated products including doors, windows and video doorbells: www.securedbydesign.com. For burglar alarms see the National Security Inspectorate and the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board www.nsi.org.uk/www.ssaib.org. The Master Locksmiths Association accredit reputable, vetted locksmiths throughout the UK: www.locksmiths.co.uk. For further crime prevention advice visit: www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention.


• Secure a rear garden with a lockable gate in tandem with a high enough fence


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