When you are away
Many burglaries happen when a house or flat is empty.
Don't advertise your absence when you're on holiday, or even out at work or shopping.
- Use time
switches - available from DIY shops - to turn on lights, radios and
other
appliances when you're out. This will make it look as if your house is
occupied. - Don't let your TV or video show through a window.
- Draw the curtains if you are going out for the evening.
- Get a friend or neighbour to look after your home when you are on holiday - to collect mail left in the letterbox, adjust the curtains, sweep up leaves, even mow the lawn and generally make the house look lived in.
- If you go away, cancel the milk and newspapers.
Help
Housing Department:
Of your local council – if you are a council tenant, some councils help pay for extra locks and alarms, especially for pensioners and the disabled, or there may be a special lock-fitting scheme. If not, they or the police may tell you about any run by a voluntary or other local organisation in your area.
Home Insurance Companies:
Some firms offer lower premiums to people who fit security locks and alarms. Some also offer discounts if you belong to a Neighbourhood or Home Watch scheme. Ask the firm whether it minds which systems you buy.
Building Society Or Bank:
They may be willing to lend you the money for extra security, and to add it to your mortgage. Good security can increase the value of your property.
Crime Prevention Advice:
Contact the Master Locksmiths Association, 5d, Great Central Way, Daventry, Northants NN11 3PZ Tel 01327 262 255 for the name of an approved locksmith in your area.
E-mail: Enquiries@locksmiths.co.uk