Home Security Tips to Deter Burglars

Turn lights on in the evening with a timer

If your home hasn’t had a single light come on all week, would-be burglars may well be thinking they’ll be in with some luck. You don’t need to leave your lights on all night or during a whole holiday – just use a smart plug like this TCP Smart WiFi Plug and schedule your lamps to come on at certain times. If smart products don’t suit you, try these Daewoo 24-Hour Mechanical Timers – 3 Pack.

Shine the spotlight on would-be burglars

Using tall trees, bushes and fences is a great way to have some privacy, but while they may deter nosy neighbours, all the darkness and solitude could entice thieves. One of the most budget-friendly home security tips is to install sensor-activated floodlights by your doors to help stop burglars in their tracks. No thief wants to be in the spotlight while they’re mid-break-in!

Use security cameras

You might think your home will be fine in broad daylight, but a lot of burglaries are actually committed during the daytime – so keep a security camera on at all times just in case. A video doorbell will monitor your front door and send you instant alerts if anyone approaches, while a smart camera will enable you to keep an eye on the inside and/or outside of your property while you’re out. Some outdoor cameras feature a siren alarm to scare away intruders.

Lock your shed and garage

Opportunistic burglars may first target your shed to steal expensive equipment or to find a tool with which to break into your home, so make sure it’s well secured. A simple, good quality padlock is a great start and is well worth the small price for a potentially large return on your security. A shed/garage alarm is also well worth looking into. 

If you need a new shed, or want something more secure, this Canopia by Palram SkyLight Shed features virtually unbreakable polycarbonate panels and a SkyLight which, while letting light in, maintains opaque external visibility for maximum privacy. It comes in a variety of sizes to suit any garden.

Keep curtains open and valuables locked up, away from windows

If your laptop or jewellery is in the window and a would-be thief walks past, you can guess what might happen next. Most burglaries are done on impulse rather than premeditated, so don’t give them a chance to consider breaking in. Hide expensive items away and, if need be, use a safe for extra-important belongings, such as this Master Lock Digital Combination Safe.

Don’t hide keys under a plant pot!

Don’t make the mistake of putting your spare keys under a plant pot or mat – keep them safe in the tough-to-penetrate Hilka Wall-Mounted Key Storage Box.