Do you Sleep with the window open in summer?
Burglaries often increase during the Spring and Summer months, when burglars take advantage of people leaving doors and windows open during the warmer weather. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the change in weather but it’s important to keep the burglars out.
According to Halifax Home Insurance, opportunistic thieves ramp up their activity during summer, resulting in a 10% increase in domestic burglaries and a 40% increase in outdoor thefts.
The majority of offenders look for the path of least resistance when attempting to gain entry to a property, and finding a door or window unlocked presents them with an attractive opportunity.
Even if you’re just nipping round to the neighbours for five minutes, hanging out the washing, or doing a spot of gardening, you should get into the habit of locking all doors and windows before you leave your home.
You should never leave windows open during the night if they can easily be used to gain access.
A senior police officer has been criticised for suggesting some burglaries should not be investigated if doors and windows have been left open.
Phil Kay, assistant chief constable of Leicestershire police, said he would “far rather” officers focus on preventing crime and protecting the public than investigate break-ins where carelessness may have played a role.
The senior officer posed the question while discussing a high rate of burglaries.
Remember also to lock your doors properly as it may void your insurance policy and you will not be able to make a claim should the worst happen and you are burgled.
- If your away at night use your mains lights to give the impression your still at home
- Make sure your doors are double locked all day especially when you are in the back garden
- A Visible alarm box make burglars think twice – make sure you switch them on when you go out.
- Lock garages and sheds
- Be alert to strangers loitering in the street. If you don’t recognise them or they are acting suspiciously, call the police on 101
- Police also suggest using prickly plants around the fence line to deter access.
- Install passive security lighting.
- Mark tools bicycles with a a UV Pen using your postcode and house number
If you don’t have an alarm it might be a good time to think about getting one installed.
Another option is to get some IP CCTV cameras which alert you when they are activated and send a message to your phone.