How to protect your home

Burglars take advantage of opportunities – whatever the season. In summer, houses and flats that are left unoccupied for long periods during the holidays are particularly at risk. In autumn and winter, the early twilight and darkness provide ideal conditions. You can significantly reduce the risk of burglary by taking a few simple precautions.

If you’re going away, you should ensure that your absence is as inconspicuous as possible.

• Lock your doors: Before you leave, check all doors and don’t forget balcony, patio and garden doors. 
• Close windows: Close all windows completely. Tilted windows are easy for burglars to get round.
• Make it look as though someone is at home: Timers or automatic lighting ensure that lights come on at different times in the evening. Do not leave blinds closed in the same position for the entire duration of your holiday. 
• Have your letterbox emptied: Ask neighbours or friends to collect your post regularly. An overflowing letterbox is a clear sign that you’re away.
• Involve your neighbours: Tell a trusted person that you’ll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your home.
• Protect your valuables: Keep cash, jewellery and other valuables as secure as possible and out of plain sight. A safe should be properly secured or built-in.
• Do not publicly announce your holiday: Be cautious about sharing information about your absence, particularly on social media. You can share holiday photos after you return. 
• Use security technology: Motion detectors, burglar-resistant doors and windows, or an alarm system can provide additional protection. 

When it gets dark early, burglars can more easily tell whether a house or flat is unoccupied. It is therefore worth making it clear that someone is at home, particularly at dusk.

• Switch on the lights: Lighting is particularly important during the darker months of the year. Timers or automatic lighting make your home look lived-in. 
• Always lock your doors: Make sure you lock your front door and flat doors, even if you’re only stepping out for a short while. 
• Close windows completely: Tilted windows are easy to force open. Don’t forget balcony and patio doors either.
• Light up outdoor areas: Motion detectors can illuminate house entrances, patios and other dark access points.  
• Stay alert: Keep an eye out for anything unusual in your neighbourhood. You can report any suspicious situations to the police. 
• Do not take any risks in the event of a burglary: If you notice or suspect a burglary, do not put yourself in danger. Alert the police and follow their instructions.