8 Top Tips for Keeping your Home Safe in Summer

Summer time is officially well under way and we're all trying to make the most of the glorious weather we have been having recently. However with opportunist thieves about it can be easy pickings for a burglar on the lookout for an open window or door left ajar to make off with your valuables.

We’ve listed our 8 Top Tips to increase your home security to make sure you won't be the next victim this summer.

1. If you know you'll be out till past sunset then leave a few lights on around the house. It may be lovely and sunny now but when it’s dark an unlit house will seem very attractive to any potential crook. You could also look at having a Bryson PIR installed which activates a switch (to turn on a lamp for example) when anyone approaches your home.

2. If you’re having a BBQ, sunbathing or relaxing in the back garden don't just assume the front of your house is secure. Close the windows and doors and make sure they are locked.

3. It may seem obvious but close all windows and doors if you're going out, even if it's just for a minute or two. It only takes a few seconds for a thief to slip in through a window and make off with mobile phones, wallets, car keys, jewellery etc.

4. Don't leave valuables such as car keys, phones and wallets in clear view from a window or door. This just advertises that there is something worth taking and it's easy to get to!

5. If you don't have two locks on your external doors then you should, and if you do then use them. It can be quite easy for any skilled thief to get through some of the old locks used on external doors. If unsure about your security CASAC provide a free security assessment on your home.

6. If you have uPVC doors or windows then make sure you lift the handle and lock using the key, it sounds simple but can make the difference between being burgled or not, thieves will often test doors and windows even if they are closed.

7. Garden equipment is often used a lot more over summer and thieves know this. Always return tools and equipment to your garden shed and make sure its locked up securely! You can read our advice on keeping your shed secure.

8. A good way to view your house from the eyes of a would be thief is to imagine you have lost your keys and are trying to get in. Take a good look around your property and make sure you're not making it easy for anyone to gain access. Are your bins kept by the side of your house below where an upstairs window is often left ajar? Do you have ladders round the back of the house from when you last cleaned the gutters? These are all things any burglar will notice straight away and use to their advantage.

To find out more about the security services we offer at CASAC please click here.