1. Lock up
While this may be obvious, it is often overlooked. Deadlocks and window locks operated with a key not only make it much harder to break into the home but also can prevent an easy exit, making it harder for burglars to remove large items from your home. Remember, don’t make it easy for criminals – don’t keep a spare house key under the front doormat, over the top of the door, in the mail or metre box, under a fake stone or in the nearby garden bed.
2. Don’t forget to lock up the shed, garage and side gates as well
Sheds and garages are inviting to thieves as they are seldom used or locked. If you can possibly avoid it, do not use a shed to store valuable items. If your garage door features a mechanical lock, we recommend to lock it before you leave. If your garage door does not feature a mechanical lock try to find a spot where you could attach a simple padlock from the inside. Maybe disconnecting the power for the garage door might also make sense if the power isn’t needed to keep the door closed. Side gates should always be locked, not only when you are away.
3. Visibility increases security
Keep the place tidy! Landscaping around your home should not only be attractive but also effective for security. Ensure trees and shrubs are trimmed so a clear view of your property is maintained. Restrict bushes that could block the view of doorways, access paths and hiding spots under windows. Sensor lights that are activated by movement are an inexpensive and excellent deterrent for burglars.
4. Install a security alarm system
We strongly recommend consulting a professional locksmith when considering the installation of an alarm or home security system. There are many features that can enhance the security of your home and make you feel better when you go on holidays.
5. Don’t advertise that you are out or away
Don’t announce to the world that you’re going on holidays or overseas for an extended period on Social Media. Facebook and Twitter may alert a thief to a potential burglary opportunity.
6. Don’t provide temptation
Move valuable items so they can’t be seen from the windows. If you bought a new big screen television or home theatre system, don’t leave the packaging outside where it’s visible. This is also a great rule for items kept in your car when it’s parked either at home or away.
7. Make it look like you are home
A letterbox full of mail, catalogues and junk mail is a sure sign that a house is unattended. Whether it be a vacated property or a family on vacation, it will spark an interest from thieves. Ask a family member or neighbour to collect your mail whilst you’r away. Additionally, making sure the bins are out for rubbish collection (and subsequently put away), turning lights on, occasional watering of the garden or mowing of the lawns (if you’re lucky) will give the impression that someone is home. If you have the paper or food boxes delivered – don’t forget to have these suspended.
8. List your belongings
Identify your belongings, both at home and at work. Take photos of your valuables and keep a register of important items (make, model and serial number). Consider doing a walk-through of your house with a video camera, detailing items in cupboards, etc. Remember to keep your photos and videos locked away or saved to the cloud. Finally – be insured!
9. If it’s expensive, lock it up
If you have expensive jewellery or other valuable items that can’t be replaced, store them in a safe. A professional locksmith can recommend a safe that is right for your needs and most importantly, that it is installed correctly. Most burglars will attempt to take the safe with them so they can break into it without the pressure of time. If a safe is incorrectly installed, security of its contents is compromised. Remember, the installation is just as important as the safe itself! Be wary of inferior products sold through some hardware stores and retail outlets that are nothing more than lockable boxes, and don’t offer the security of a genuine safe.
10. Neighbourhood Watch
Check if Neighbourhood Watch operates in your suburb. Neighbourhood Watch is a group of community residents who keep a lookout for suspicious activity in their neighbourhood and report it to the police. It’s also a great idea to ask your neighbours to keep an eye on things whilst you’re away.