Summer Home Security on your mind this summer? – Ah, summer in the UK! Long evenings, brighter mornings, the scent of barbecues in the air, and opportunist burglars on the prowl, looking for an easy entry through an open door or window.
In this week’s blog, we discuss that while the warmer months bring joy and relaxation, they also, unfortunately, bring a heightened risk for home burglaries. As people head off on holidays, enjoy more time outdoors, or simply leave windows open for fresh air, opportunistic thieves see an increased window of opportunity.
This isn’t about instilling fear, but rather promoting awareness and proactive measures for Home Security. Just as you’d check your car’s tyres before a long road trip, thinking about your home security during the summer months is a wise and necessary step to keeping you and your family safe.
Let’s delve into the key home security services you might need to ensure your home remains summer safe.
1. Alarm System Servicing and Upgrades
Many homes have alarm systems, but are they in optimal working order? Summer is the perfect time to ensure your burglar alarm system is ready to deter any unwanted guests.
- Professional Servicing: A professional home security service with SheffLOCK can conduct a thorough check of your burglar alarm system, testing all sensors on doors and windows, checking battery life (especially for wireless systems), and ensuring the control panel is functioning correctly. We can also check the siren’s volume and ensure it’s audible to deter intruders and alert neighbours.
- Monitoring Services: If you’re planning an extended holiday, consider upgrading to a monitored alarm system. This means your alarm is linked to a central monitoring station that will respond to activations, notifying you and/or the police if an intrusion is detected. This provides an invaluable layer of protection when your home is empty.
- Smart Home Integration: Modern burglar alarm systems can integrate with smart home technology, allowing you to arm/disarm remotely, receive real-time alerts on your phone, and even view live camera feeds. This can be particularly reassuring when you’re away.
2. Lock Assessments and Upgrades
Often overlooked, your locks are the most fundamental barrier against intrusion. With windows and doors potentially left open more often, ensuring your locks are robust is critical.
- Door and Window Lock Assessment: SheffLOCK Locksmiths can conduct a comprehensive security audit of all your doors and windows. They will check the condition of existing locks, identify any weak points, and recommend necessary upgrades. This is especially important for older properties where locks may not meet current British Standards (BS3621).
- High-Security Lock Installation: Consider upgrading to anti-snap, anti-drill, and anti-pick cylinders for your main doors. These provide significantly higher resistance against common burglary techniques. Similarly, ensuring all ground-floor and easily accessible windows have robust, key-operated locks is essential.
- Patio and Bi Fold Security: These large glass doors are often targeted in summer. SheffLOCK Sheffield Locksmiths can install additional security measures such as multi-point locking systems, high-security cylinder locks, or even internal security bars that brace the doors against forced entry.
- Shed and Garage Security: Don’t forget your garden shed or garage! These often contain valuable tools that burglars can then use to gain entry to your home. SheffLOCK your local locksmith can fit high-security padlocks, hasps, staples, or even stronger door locks to protect your outdoor valuables.
3. CCTV and Security Camera Installation
Visible security cameras are a powerful deterrent, and if the worst happens, they provide crucial evidence.
- Strategic Placement: SheffLOCK Locksmiths can advise on the optimal placement of CCTV cameras to cover all potential entry points and vulnerable areas of your property, including driveways, front doors, back gardens, and windows.
- High-Definition and Night Vision: Ensure your cameras offer clear, high-definition footage, including good night vision capabilities, as many burglaries occur under the cover of darkness.
- Remote Viewing and Alerts: Modern CCTV systems allow you to view live feeds and recorded footage remotely via your smartphone or tablet. Some systems can also send instant alerts when motion is detected, allowing you to react quickly.
4. Lighting Solutions
Darkness provides cover for criminals. Effective security lighting can significantly reduce your home’s vulnerability.
- Motion-Sensor Lighting: Installing motion-activated lights around your property, particularly near doors, windows, and dark pathways, can startle potential intruders and draw attention to their presence.
- Timer Switches for Internal Lights: If you’re away, using timer switches for internal lights can create the illusion that your home is occupied, making it a less attractive target.
- Professional Installation: SheffLOCK can advise on the best type and placement of lighting to ensure maximum coverage and effectiveness without annoying your neighbours.
5. Holiday Security Checks
Heading off for that well-deserved break? A comprehensive holiday security check can give you peace of mind.
- Home Security Survey: Before you leave, consider having a FREE Home Security survey from SheffLOCK of your home, identifying any last-minute vulnerabilities and ensuring all systems are active.
- House Sitting / Key Holding Services: If you’re going away for an extended period, a reputable key holding service can offer periodic checks on your property, collect mail, and respond to alarms. This provides an extra layer of vigilance.
Summer should be a time for enjoyment and relaxation, not worry. By proactively engaging professional home security services with SheffLOCK.