🔐 How to Keep Your Home Safe and Secure This Summer
Whether it’s a beach holiday or a city break, the last thing anyone wants to think about while away is home security.
But the reality is, burglary rates often rise in July and August, right when many people are off enjoying their summer.
The good news? A few simple steps can make a big difference in keeping things secure while you’re away.
“Three Tip Friday” usually sticks to just three ideas, but some topics deserve a bit more attention, and this is definitely one of them.
🧰 Check All Locks
Before heading off, take five minutes to check that all windows and doors lock properly. If anything feels loose or faulty, get it sorted.
Look for locks that meet Secured by Design or Sold Secure standards, both are recommended by Neighbourhood Watch and have passed rigorous testing.
🔑 Don’t Cut Corners with Locksmiths
If you’re upgrading locks, use a professional. Always choose someone approved by the Master Locksmiths Association.
Unlicensed tradespeople might not fit locks properly, and in the worst cases, they could pose a security risk themselves.
🧗♂️ Reduce Climbing Access
Burglars are opportunists, and they’ll climb if they think it’ll get them in.
Remove anything they could use to reach windows (like ladders or bins), and consider applying anti-climb paint to drainpipes or flat roof access points.
🚲 Secure the Shed
Sheds often contain tools, bikes, or garden gear, all easy pickings. Worse still, burglars sometimes use what they find in sheds to try to break into the main house.
Make sure:
- The shed door is locked
- Hinges can’t be unscrewed from the outside
- Valuables inside aren’t visible from the garden
💡 Let There Be Light
Burglars prefer the cover of darkness. Install motion-sensor lights around the front and back of the property to make it harder to move around unnoticed.
Inside the house, consider using light timers to turn lamps on in the evening, it helps create the impression that someone’s home.
🚪 Keep Up Appearances
A home that looks empty is a clear target. A trusted neighbour can be a real asset while you’re away.
Ask them to:
- Put your bins out and back in
- Keep an eye on post buildup
- Generally check in from time to time
📱 Wait to Post Holiday Pics
It’s tempting to share every sunset and beachside meal, but if the wrong person is watching, it’s basically an invitation.
Hold off on sharing holiday updates until you’re back. It’s a simple way to avoid broadcasting an empty home.
☀️ Summer Should Be Worry-Free
With just a bit of forward planning, it’s easy to leave home feeling confident that things are safe and secure.
Know someone heading off on holiday soon?
Feel free to share this post with them, a few precautions now can help avoid problems later.
Thanks for reading
Michael
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