Many burglaries are carried out by opportunistic thieves who spot an open or unsecured door or window. There are a few simple precautions you can take to help avoid this.
- Be sure to lock all outside doors and windows. Many burglaries happen during the afternoon, so even if you’re just popping out always lock up fully before you go. When
you lock up while you’re inside, at night for example, keep your keys nearby where you can find them easily, so you can escape quickly in an emergency. - If a carer or relative has their own key, make sure they securely fasten your door on their way out. (Remember not to leave your keys on the inside of the door because this will
stop them getting in.) - Keep your ladder and garden tools locked away.
- Always keep your keys, including your car keys, in a safe place. The first place a burglar will look for your door key is under the doormat, in a flower-pot or on a piece of string
through the letter box. Never leave any keys in the locks or lying around the house. - Keep valuables out of sight.
- If you are out for the evening, leave a front room light on (not just the hall) and consider putting the radio on too. Draw the curtains, leaving a small gap at the top so the
light can be seen from outside. An opportunistic thief may think there’s someone in the house and be put off.
This article is from the Age UK website, where there are numerous information and advice sheets covering a huge range of topics – it’s well worth a visit!
