In 20 per cent of burglary cases, thieves get in through open windows or unlocked doors. This section will help you to prevent your home from becoming a target.

Protect your home

There are lots of things you can do to make your home an unattractive prospect for burglars. Below are some reminders for protecting your home.

• Remember to lock doors and windows whenever you leave home.
• Use deadlocks on front doors, as it makes it more difficult for burglars to break in.
• Don’t leave spare keys in an obvious place outside your house (e.g. under a plant pot).
• Make sure very valuable items are not viewable from the street.
• Use timer lights and radios when you’re out, to give the impression someone is in the house.
• Try to get a security light fitted by your front door.
• Get a burglar alarm and see if you can get it put somewhere visible – it will act as a deterrent.
• Get a spy hole fitted, so you can see who is at the door before you open it.
• Speak to your nearest Neighbourhood Watch.
• Take out house insurance.

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In case of a burglary

• If you think your house is being burgled and you are stuck inside, keep quiet and call the police.
• If you come home and think your house is being burgled, don’t confront the thief – your safety is more important. Call the police from a safe place.
• Once you have reported the incident to the police, take a note of the crime number so you can start an insurance claim for any stolen or damaged goods.

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