Home Insurance Crime Guide
When it comes to crime, prevention is far better than cure. We invest a great deal of time, money and love in our homes. Having them violated by burglars is a traumatic experience. So we've put together a 10-point plan to help you stay one step ahead of the thieves.
Are you in or out?
If your home looks empty, it will be a more tempting target to opportunist burglars than one that's buzzing with life. Get yourself an inexpensive timer to switch lights on and off, and leave a radio on while you're out. Keep blinds and curtains closed so it's difficult to check whether anyone's in or not.
Lock up tight
Even the tiniest open window is an open invitation to the determined thief. Get good locks for doors and windows – and use them. External doors should have 5-lever mortice deadlocks confirming to BS6321.
Shed more light on the subject
Burglars don't like to be in the spotlight. Exterior lights - whether they are activated manually or by motion sensors - will help keep them at bay.
Beware of the dog
If you're out all day and don't fancy the idea of leaving a dog in the house, there's still nothing to stop you putting a 'Beware of the Dog' sign up. Another trick is to leave a water bowl by the back door to reinforce the illusion.
Key Facts
Never leave keys in a lock – or anywhere near a door for that matter. Thieves will stick their arm through a letter box or cat flap, or break a small window to reach them. Some even use fishing rods to hook door and car keys off hall tables. At night, put your keys out of sight but where you can find them easily in an emergency. Take handbags and wallets into the bedroom with you.
Natural defences
The law doesn't allow you to fortify your home with razor-wire and man traps, but you can plant thorny shrubs around your home. Holly, roses and teasels all act like nature's own barbed wire fence.
Closed for business
In hot weather only leave windows and doors that you can see open. If you're working in the back garden, an opportunist thief could be in and out of an open front window in moments.
Sound the alarm
Surveys** indicate that security devices such as alarms and external lights are effective against burglary. What's more, a NACOSS*** approved alarm may mean a discount on your home insurance.
Don't provide the burglar with his tools
Lock away ladders and tools so that they can't be used against you.
Neighbourhood Watch
Curtain-twitchers can be annoying but that nosy neighbour could save you losing treasured possessions. Become one yourself by joining the Neighbourhood Watch.
* Contents cover only.
** Taken from the British Crime Survey 2000, published by the Home Office website: www.crimereduction.gov.uk
*** National Approval Council for Security Systems
