Protect Your Home as the Nights Get Darker
November marks the start of the darkest months of the year in the UK, and with the clocks now back, evenings draw in as early as 4 pm. Unfortunately, burglaries are known to rise during this period because intruders take advantage of empty, unlit homes.
At mydome, we specialise in simple, effective home security solutions designed to make your home look lived-in and deter opportunistic thieves — without complicated installations or monthly fees.
Here are the most important home security practices for November to protect your home, garden, sheds and garages.
1. Use Light Timers to Make Your Home Look Occupied
One of the biggest signs that a house is empty is a dark home at 5pm.
Using the mydome Light Switch Timer, you can programme your existing wall light switch to turn your lights on automatically at dusk and throughout the evening.
Why this helps:
✔ Looks natural — lights switch on and off as if someone is home
✔ Perfect for properties without smart bulbs
✔ No rewiring or electrician needed
✔ Winter-proof home protection
Explore our Light Switch Timer here
2. Secure Your Shed & Garage – High-Risk in Winter
Sheds and garages are prime targets in November because they store:
Bikes
Tools
Garden machinery
Christmas decorations
Install a mydome Motion Alarm or Garden Sensor to deter intruders the moment they approach.
Benefits:
✔ Loud 125dB alarm
✔ Wireless installation
✔ Ideal for sheds, garages, side entrances & alleyways
Check out our Shed & Garage Motion Alarm
3. Lock Windows, Side Doors & Conservatories Early
With sunset arriving so early, many people forget to double check ground-floor entry points.
Make a routine to lock:
🔹 Patio doors
🔹 Conservatory doors
🔹 Side access gates
🔹 Garage side doors
🔹 Kitchen windows
Small habits make a big difference.
4. Keep Curtains Closed After 4pm
Burglars often “window shop” by looking into homes before choosing a target.
In November, close curtains or blinds as soon as it gets dark to block visibility of valuables such as:
TVs
Games consoles
Laptops
Christmas gifts stored early
Pair this with a Light Switch Timer to create the effect of a busy, lived-in home even if you’re out.
5. Don’t Leave Packaging Outside — Especially Electronics
Black Friday and early Christmas shopping means homes receive higher-value deliveries.
Leaving boxes outside advertises exactly what’s inside your home.
Break down boxes and place them inside your bin or take them to a recycling centre.
6. Protect Deliveries With Motion Alerts
With more online orders arriving in November, parcel theft rises sharply.
Place a mydome Garden Sensor near:
Front porch
Side gate
Driveway
Back entrance
You’ll receive an instant alert (sound alarm or chime depending on your setup) when someone approaches.
Browse the Garden & Approach Sensor:
7. Use Indoor Lighting to Create Movement
Burglars avoid homes that show signs of movement.
Use timers on:
Hallway lights
Landing lights
Living room lamps
Bedroom lighting
The more natural the “activity pattern,” the more effective the deterrent.
With the mydome Light Switch Timer, you can automate several key lights to switch on/off throughout the evening to mimic real household behaviour.
8. Keep Your Garden Clear of Hiding Spots
As autumn leaves fall, gardens become cluttered, giving intruders more hiding places.
Tidy up:
Overgrown bushes
Fallen branches
Dark corners near fences
Items leaning against sheds
A clear garden means fewer opportunities for someone to sneak around unnoticed.
9. Check Outdoor Movement Paths Are Secure
Burglars often approach from the side or rear of a property.
Make sure you:
✔ Lock your side gate
✔ Install a motion alarm in dark access routes
✔ Use gravel or stones which are noisy to walk on
✔ Keep bins away from fences (they can be used as ladders)
10. Plan Ahead for Winter Breaks
If you’re heading away in November or December:
Use light timers in multiple rooms
Ask a neighbour to check post build-up
Don’t announce holidays publicly online
Set up shed/garage alarms while you’re away
Small precautions stop your home looking empty.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe as Winter Begins
November is the beginning of peak burglary season in the UK — but simple steps and the right tools can dramatically reduce your risk.
The mydome range is designed to help you:
✔ Automate your lighting
✔ Protect sheds and garages
✔ Secure outdoor approach areas
✔ Make your home look lived-in all winter long