As the festive season reaches its peak, a stark warning has been issued to UK homeowners: Christmas presents a prime opportunity for burglars. With many households left empty as people travel to visit loved ones, properties become vulnerable targets during the darker winter evenings.
The Festive Security Threat
Shocking statistics underline the scale of the risk. One in 100 UK homes is burgled each year, with the likelihood of being targeted varying significantly by location. Ian Austick, Managing Director at LED and Power, has highlighted the increased danger during this period. "With winter bringing shorter days and darker evenings, our homes are at an increased risk of domestic burglary this season," he explained.
Austick added a particularly concerning detail: while most burglaries happen when someone is home, more than a third (35.9%) occur when the property is empty. This makes securing an unattended house over Christmas a critical priority for anyone travelling.
Nine Expert Tips for a Secure Home
Lighting specialists LED and Power, collaborating with home security experts, have compiled a list of nine practical measures to bolster your defences.
1. Conceal Your Valuables: Move high-value items like jewellery, cash, and laptops out of plain sight to a discreet, secure location. Just be sure you remember where you've hidden them.
2. Remove Spare Keys: That key under the doormat or flowerpot is the first place a burglar will look. Take any spare keys with you or leave them with a trusted neighbour instead.
3. Double-Check All Entry Points: Ensure every single window and door is locked, including those on upper floors. This simple step is often overlooked but can be a crucial barrier.
4. Secure Your Garden: Garden sheds are a frequent target. Use robust padlocks on sheds containing expensive tools. Also, remove any items like ladders or tables that could be used to access high windows.
5. Invest in Visible Security: Modern security cameras and smart doorbells are more accessible than ever. Visible cameras act as a powerful deterrent, and many systems send instant alerts to your phone if motion is detected.
6. Create a Lived-In Illusion: Use timer switches on lamps or leave a radio on to suggest someone is home. Always ensure this is done safely to avoid any fire risk from overheating appliances.
7. Enlist Your Neighbours: Good relationships with those living nearby are invaluable. A trusted neighbour keeping an eye out for unusual activity can be your best early warning system.
8. Consider a House Sitter: The most effective deterrent is having someone physically in the property. If you'll be away for an extended time, ask a friend or family member to house-sit.
9. Be Cautious on Social Media: Avoid broadcasting your travel plans or location online. Telling the world your house is empty is an open invitation to potential thieves.
Understanding the Burglary Profile
Further analysis from NimbleFins provides a clearer picture of the typical burglary. In the overwhelming majority of cases (just over 70%), burglars operate alone. Two perpetrators are involved in around 18% of incidents.
Perhaps more unsettling is the relationship between victim and offender. Data shows the culprit is known to the victim in roughly a quarter of all break-ins. However, over half of burglaries are still carried out by complete strangers.
By following these expert home security tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming another statistic and ensure that the only visitor entering your home this Christmas is the one in the red suit.
