Top tips to protect your home from burglary during darker months

According to new data from Lloyds Bank, there were 35% more claims for forced burglary received during the ‘darker months’ of 2017/2018 versus the ‘lighter months’ of 2018.

Related topics:  At Home
Warren Lewis
29th October 2018
Night Burglar 442

This equated to 2,199 claims between October 2017 and February 2018, versus 1,624 between March and July 2018.

The picture was the same in preceding years. 7% more claims were received in the ‘darker months’ of 2016/2017 versus the ‘lighter months’ of 2017. 28% more claims were received in the same periods of 2015/2016.

Tim Downes, Senior Claims Manager, Lloyds Bank Home Insurance, said: “The clocks going back should act as a reminder to protect our homes from burglars during the darker days. In the summer months we receive more claims for ‘unforced’ burglaries as thieves take advantage of open windows and doors, however winter typically sees a spike in break-ins using force. Dark evenings, overgrown hedges and shady corners provide the perfect hiding places for opportunistic thieves.

We’re urging homeowners to remain vigilant over winter and do what they can to protect their home so they can have peace of mind to enjoy those cosy nights in.”

Top tips to keep your home safe as the clocks go back:

Light up: leave a light on in your home when you are out or have a light timer fitted. It’s also a good idea to install exterior security lights at the front and back of your property

Someone is home: leave the radio or the television on to give the impression that the house is occupied
Tech safe: if possible, invest in a CCTV system. You can now also buy cameras that allow you to monitor your home remotely via your smart phone or tablet

Ring the alarm: it’s a good idea to invest in a burglar alarm. Not only do they keep your home safe, but also act as a deterrent to burglars

Lock up: ensure doors and windows are locked, especially at night, and when you go out, and don’t leave valuables on display

Easy access: don’t leave ladders outside your home, or in the garden, making it easier for burglars to gain access to your home

Garden maintenance: make sure bushes, hedges and trees aren’t allowed to over-grow, providing the perfect hiding spot for thieves

Sound alert: having a gravel driveway can be a good deterrent to burglars as the sound will alert homeowners to an intruder.

Seasonal festivals: with upcoming seasonal festivals such as Diwali, Halloween and Hanukkah. Households might have more expensive items in the home than normal. Make sure you have the right level of cover for these possessions

Stored away: make sure garden tools are stored away safely. Don’t leave them outside where they could be used to break into your home.

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