Feeling safe in your own home is important, and with the rise in residential burglary offences in Sussex, it’s essential that your home security is the best it can be. In the year ending September 2023, there was an 18% increase in the number of recorded residential burglary offences in the Sussex area compared to the year before.
At Horsham Locksmiths, we understand the importance of home security, which is why we offer a wide range of locksmith services and security upgrades tailored to your needs.
In this blog post, we’ll share some simple and effective tips to upgrade your home security and deter potential burglars.
9 Home Security Tips:
Invest in quality locks:
Your front and back doors are the most common entry points for burglars, so it’s important that you have high-quality, anti-snap locks installed. These locks are created to resist forced entry attempts, e.g., lock snapping, which is a common technique used by burglars. This simple change of locks can quickly level up the security of your home.
If you have a letterbox on your door, we advise having a lock with key entry on both sides instead of a thumb-turn lock because burglars can easily put a tool through your letterbox and open your door from the outside.
Check your window locks:
Most UPVC windows already have locks installed, but if your windows don’t, then you should think about getting them fitted. Locked windows, especially on the ground, make it harder for someone to break in. Some insurance policies may require homes to have window locks to qualify for coverage.
Be smart about spare keys:
Instead of hiding your keys outside your home in obvious places where they can be found easily (under a mat, under a flowerpot, etc.), use a key safe with a combination code. This means that your spare keys are kept safe and can only be accessed by you. If you do want to provide others with a spare key to your home, make sure it’s someone you trust, and limit the number of spare keys you give out.
Install a letterbox guard:
A budget-friendly, easy method of levelling up your home security is installing a letterbox guard on your door. The purpose of a letterbox guard is to prevent a common tactic used by thieves known as “letterbox fishing.” This is where thieves try to fish out your keys or any nearby valuables through your letterbox using different tools. Having a letterbox guard makes it a lot harder for anyone to get into your home using this method.
Set up timers for lights:
Most burglars prefer empty houses where no one will interrupt or see them, so a house with no lights on throughout the evening can catch their attention and become one of their targets. So, if you are out of the house, especially for a night away, using timers on your lights can help keep burglars away because it makes it look like someone is home. It’s a simple and effective way to boost your home’s security without costing you a lot.
Install CCTV cameras or a video doorbell:
Invest in CCTV cameras and have them installed and pointed at entrance points to your home; they act as visual deterrents to burglars. Security cameras with motion detection and night vision can also be very helpful in providing video evidence if there’s been a break-in.
Install motion sensor lights
Motion sensor lights turn on automatically when they detect movement, which can make it harder for intruders to hide. Also, the sudden burst of light can surprise intruders and make them think they’ve been spotted, deterring them from continuing. There are a range of budget-friendly options available online to suit your home security needs.
Install a burglar alarm
Having a visible burglar alarm system acts as a good deterrent to potential intruders and is an effective home security decision. Knowing that there’s an alarm system in place makes burglars think twice before attempting to break into your home. It will also help give you peace of mind that your home has an extra layer of security, so you can stay stress free!
Contact Horsham Locksmiths
Do you wish your home was more secure? Our locksmiths, Laurence and Justin, have 20+ years of combined experience in the industry. We provide a wide range of expert locksmith services, to level up and protect your home security.
Security Assessments:
Our locksmiths can identify security weaknesses in your home and recommend personalised solutions that work for your home and your budget.
Lock Upgrades:
Our experts can install high-security front door locks, garage door locks, garden gate locks, and even shed locks, providing an extra layer of security throughout your property.
Digital Locks:
Upgrades to keyless entry are available with convenient and secure digital locks.
24/7 Emergency Locksmith Service:
We’re here for you, day or night, in emergency cases of lockouts or security concerns.
For expert advice and assistance with upgrading your home security, contact us with your enquiry. Our experienced, friendly locksmith team is here to help you protect your home against burglary.
