Top Home Security Tips

Keeping your family safe and secure is at the top of every parent’s list. After all, an English person’s home is their castle!

Our simple guide to home safety is here to give peace of mind, so you can get on with the important business of having a happy and comfortable life.

USE YOUR BURGLAR ALARM

This might seem like an obvious point, but we all lead such busy lives nowadays that remembering to set the burglar alarm can be difficult.

Taking that extra thirty seconds before you head for bed can make all the difference. As well as being a deterrent to anyone trying to break in, setting the alarm makes it easier for you to make an insurance claim if any of your belongings are stolen.

Having your burglar alarm tested regularly will make sure that you won’t be let down by any faulty equipment.

BUY A SAFE

We can’t stress this enough: Keep your valuables in a safe! Take the time to look at different types before you make the big decision: Electronic, Fingerprint and Fire Safes are just some of what is on offer.

It might also be worth buying secure lockers for the kids’ various gadgets such as games consoles and MP3 players.

This could make your wallet feel a lot lighter, but it is worth the long-term investment.

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT LOCKING UP

Teach your kids about being thorough when it comes to locking up.

When you’re going out on a family trip at the weekend, ask them to double check that windows and doors have been shut properly before you leave.

Who knows, they might even spot something you missed!

ALWAYS ASK FOR IDENTIFICATION

Whether it’s someone coming to check the gas meter or a police officer on their round, always ask for identification. That way, you’ll be sure that the caller is legitimate.

Bogus callers are rare, but get yourself into the habit of asking for ID. It’s not rude, it’s sensible.

If they refuse to show a badge, politely ask them to leave before closing and chaining the door. Never let anyone pressure you into letting them inside.

REPLACE FAULTY LOCKS

Old or broken locks need to be replaced as soon as you notice a problem. Again, it does mean spending money, but it’s worth that extra piece of mind. A quality locksmith will have the work done in no time!

DON’T LEAVE VALUABLES ON DISPLAY

It’s amazing the things that people leave lying around in plain sight: car keys, mobile phones and money are just a few. Keep your valuables close to you when you go to bed. It means that burglars won’t be able to steal things that easy to get to.

You don’t need to keep a list of everything, but make sure you know where these things are before you turn off the light. Then you won’t have to worry that you left something important on the dining room table or on a windowsill in the sitting room.

LOCK THE GARAGE

Garden tools and bikes are a popular target for thieves, because they are expensive and relatively easy to steal. Make sure that the garage is locked up every night.

We hope that you have enjoyed our guide. The most important advice we can give is this: Don’t Panic. You are probably doing most of the things on the list already, but it always helps to have a gentle reminder.

James Archer was writing on behalf of The Safe Shop, a leading online retailer of safes, locks and storage units.

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