Step 1: Hide It!
Don’t leave your valuables in plain sight. If items such as lawnmowers, bicycles and barbeques are left lying around or where they can be easily seen, they can unnecessarily tempt burglars or would-be thieves. Valuable items are best stored out of sight and away from unwanted eyes.
Windows and sliding doors that are screened or curtained can make it difficult for unwanted intruders to see into your premises, discouraging their temptation to break in because they are unsure of what can be quickly grabbed!
Hide your activity from potential thieves so that they do not know your movements. In other words, do not leave notes on the door saying you are ‘Going Shopping’, or ‘Back In 5 Minutes’! These can be viewed as an easy invitation to a burglar.
This also extends to taking care using social media being careful how you can indicate if you are away from your home or premises by posting photos and locations at the time you are away.
Step 2: Light It!
Exterior lighting can be beneficial in preventing break-ins. If doors and windows, and the surrounding areas, are illuminated and more highly visible, a thief may be less eager to attempt a break in for fear of being seen.
Install motion-sensitive lights around your premises and home, especially concentrating on the backyard, this can help to keep an eye on things and to discourage unwanted intruders.
Leaving some internal lights on when you go out can also give the impression that someone is present at the premises, making the prospect of breaking in less attractive.
Internal lights can also be connected to automatic timers to turn them on in the evening and off during the day giving the appearance that the property is occupied, especially if you are going to be away for any length of time.
Step 3: Lock It!
Lock all exterior doors, sliding doors and windows before you leave the house or premises. Everything should also be locked up before you go to bed. Even if you are only out for a short amount of time, lock it! This tip applies to unattended vehicles left in the driveway as well.
As 40 percent of break-ins occur without the use of force, meaning the majority are opportunistic where the thief has simply walked in, it is imperative to lock your premises at all time!
As well, always lock your garden sheds and garages, and lock down your important items such as barbeques, trailers, and lawn mowers. Special devices are available for ‘locking down’ such items.
Lock your premises with deadlocks and strong security devices to help prevent break-ins.
Step 4: Check It!
Check your premises is secure before you leave it. Double-check that you have locked up securely before you walk or drive away, and before you go to bed. (Do not activate deadlocks if you are inside due to the creation of a fire safety hazard.)
Check all your doors and windows locks are functioning correctly, and replace them if necessary.
Have a professional locksmith check your security and locking devices to make sure they are working correctly, and the best device for the application.
Check your doors are strong enough to withstand the force of a kick, and make sure your door hinges are on the inside and not easily able to be unscrewed.
Check your internal door to the garage is secure, and that your garage door is secure.
Finally, check with your local watch to learn about local break-ins and recent criminal activity.
These are a few simple steps to help achieve peace of mind when locking and securing your home or premises against potential thieves. For a professional check, Blacks Mobile Locksmiths, Beenleigh, are available to offer advice on security and the many devices that can be used to secure your home or premises. Call the team today on 07 3382 0755, and stay safe and secure!
Want a Professional Security Check?
If you’d like peace of mind that your doors, locks, and entry points are properly secured, Blacks Mobile Locksmiths can assess your current setup and recommend practical improvements.
