Your home should feel like your fortress, not Fort Knox, but enough to make burglars and intruders to move on to another target. Unfortunately, even the sturdiest castle has its weak spots.
This guide, put together with insights from an emergency locksmith Bradford and other home security professionals, will help break down the ten most common security slip-ups that homeowners make. More importantly, we’ll share tips on how to fix them before burglars take advantage.
1. Hiding a Spare Key Under the Mat (or Any Object)
Many homeowners turn plant pots, doorframes, fake gnomes, and virtually anything large and ubiquitous enough to “conceal” the house key.
Guess what! Burglars know it too! That’s why they always check these spots first before attempting with brute force (or a break-in tool).
Most folks who make this mistake say they always get themselves locked out. A professional locksmith can fit a key safe with a combination lock to address this issue. Alternatively, you can entrust your key to someone, preferably a relative living nearby.
2. Overgrown Bushes Help Burglars Stay Hidden
Overgrown greenery near windows is a burglar’s dream. It’s perfect for hiding while picking a lock or forcing entry.
So, keep your shrubs low and tidy near your home’s entry points (including windows). If you want taller plants, place them in areas without doors or windows.
You can also consult a professional locksmith to identify security vulnerabilities like these, including the ideal burglar-deterring height of your plants.
3. Bad Outdoor Lighting Can Backfire on Your Security
Security lights are great burglary deterrents, provided they don’t cast big shadows for someone to hide in. constantly-on outdoor lights can make things easier for intruders.
Swap these outdoor lights for motion-activated versions that catch burglars off guard. Locksmiths can help you find the most energy-efficient motion sensor outdoor lights for your DIY security upgrades.
4. Valuables in Plain Sight Invite Trouble
That sleek gaming laptop or shiny watch (even a brand-new gaming console) sitting in plain view through the window is a magnet for burglars. It’s like leaving a note inviting baddies to take them.
Ground-floor windows are especially vulnerable. So, locksmiths recommend drawing curtains, closing blinds, or even rearranging furniture to make valuables less visible.
Locksmiths love to point out that burglars shop with their eyes before breaking in.
5. Leaving Packaging or Product Boxes Out with the Bins Can Attract Thieves
Did you just buy a new TV? Maybe a laptop? Don’t announce it to the world by dumping the packaging or product box at the curb.
Instead, flatten the packaging or cut it up. Put it inside your bin. Alternatively, you can dispose it at the dumps.
Locksmiths who work closely with local police often see spikes in burglaries after big shopping events or Christmas.
6. Social Media Posts Can Expose Your Empty Home
We get it! We all want to tell the whole world about our travels. So, when you post on Facebook or Instagram that’s you’ll be off to Greece for two weeks, that’s an open invitation to burglars.
There’s no way we can be certain who sees what in our social media accounts (yes, even with “strict” privacy settings). So, delay sharing or posting your post-holiday snapshots until you’re safely home.
Here’s a locksmith’s advice. Stay cautious online.
7. Uncollected Mail Signals You’re Away
A pile of post sticking out the letterbox tells burglars no one’s home. Newspapers on the doorstep screams the same message.
Before heading off to a fantastic holiday destination (or anywhere far from your home), ask a neighbour to collect your mail or papers. Alternatively, you can use Royal Mail’s Keepsafe service.
Locksmiths also advise cancelling milk or newspaper deliveries. It’s worth pointing out that burglars often case potential targets before striking. So, don’t give them an easy signal that your home is empty.
8. Visible Alarm Panels Make Easy Targets
Burglary alarms are great! Unfortunately, inappropriate placement can undermine your security.
For instance, placing the alarm system panel where it’s visible from a window can help burglars know if the alarm is armed or not (is it blinking green?).
Locksmiths recommend placing alarm panels (or keypads) in a more discreet location or at least block the view from outside. Alternatively, your locksmith can help configure a smarter system.
9. Unsecured Ladders Give Intruders a Boost
Unlocked garden sheds and tool outbuildings are burglar gold, as are garden tools and unsecured ladders. Intruders don’t need to break in through the front door when they can climb using a ladder or pry windows with a handy screwdriver.
So, lock up ladders and tools. Invest in a high-security shed padlock. Alternatively, locksmiths recommend a bike lock. They also advise homeowners to consider upgrading their outbuilding’s security because it’s often a property’s weak link.
10. Tall Fences can Offer Burglars the Privacy They Need
Some homeowners prefer uber-tall gates and fences to make them feel secure and deliver privacy to their affairs. Unfortunately, such structures can backfire.
Your neighbours can’t raise the alarm or call the police if they cannot see your property (and the burglar trying to break in through the front door). Semi-open fencing could be a viable option. If you insist on tall fences, at least let a locksmith install motion-activated security lights and camera systems.
Locksmiths often recommend balancing privacy with visibility. After all, being seen can be as protective as being hidden.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Make it Easy for Burglars
Home security is more about common sense. Add regular security check-ups and spotting the small things can bring tranquillity to your life.
Does any of these 10 home security mistakes sound familiar? Worry no more. Fixing most of them is easy, including upgrading locks, repositioning lights, and trimming the hedge.
Lastly, consult a friendly, qualified locksmith. They’ll help you spot security weaknesses.
