Burglary

Burglary is an unlawful or forcible entry or attempted entry of a residence for the purpose of committing a criminal offense, usually theft. Victims of burglary not only lose items of value, some of which are personal or irreplaceable, but the emotional shock of having your property invaded can be deeply upsetting.

Criminals look for a number of signs to detect an empty home. How can you protect your property from intruders?

When are you most likely to be a victim of burglary?

Whenever you’re away from home.

When you’re home but busy or asleep.

After Christmas when criminals know you have new and expensive presents in the house.

When you go away on vacation

There’s no place like home, and it’s important to make your home as protected as possible to ensure that it is a safe place for you, your property, and your loved ones. Follow our advice on keeping your home and property secure from most criminal threats:

While some security measures can be expensive, there are other things you can do that cost much less:

Leave lights or a radio on when you go out.

Check that all doors and windows are properly closed and locked.

When you leave the property, no matter how long, make sure that these entry points are all locked. Also, make sure you lock up before going to bed at night.

There’s no point leaving your keys in an accessible place – don’t leave them on doors/windows or hanging within easy reach of the front door.

Don’t leave side gates open and make sure they’re secure.

Don’t leave accessible windows open at night.

Keep ladders out of sight.

Break up packaging for electrical goods (TVs, laptops, etc) and put it all in your recycling box. Leaving it outside will alert a burglar to your new purchase.

Install sensor lights, spy holes, door chains, and alarms for further security measures.

Change your routine often. Burglars often watch activities in a neighbourhood