Protect your home against break-ins – tips from the expert
Even if the number of residential break-ins has declined significantly according to the most recent report from BRÅ (the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention), which was published in November, it is important to continue prevention efforts. The risk of break-ins increases during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays when many families leave their homes to travel.
How can you make a thief’s job harder? Lina Nilsson, advisory expert and project manager for Neighbourhood Watch at the Swedish Theft Prevention Association shares her best tips for keeping your home secure.
Are you away for Christmas? Think like a thief.
Make it look like someone is home
Thieves most often avoid homes where it looks like someone is there. It is important to make it look as though you are at home even if you’re not. Don’t do a deep clean; leave your home as you would when you are at home or only away for a short time. Leave dishes on the counter and table and leave out things that are normally left out during weekdays.
Create activity in and around the home
Leave some lamps on or use timers, and ask a neighbour to collect your mail, shovel snow up to the door, throw garbage in your garbage can, etc., so it looks like you’re at home.
Join or start a Neighbourhood Watch
An active neighbourhood watch can deter thieves and create security in the area. Cooperate with your neighbours in order to keep an eye on each other’s homes.
Review your locks and security products
Have a look at your locks: Do you live in an apartment? Consider installing a lock cover to prevent break-ins via your mail slot.
Do you have objects of value? Invest in a safe for your valuables.
Lock up gardening equipment and ladders
Do you have a garden? Lock up your gardening tools and ladders so that they can’t be used to break in.
Reduce the risk of home invasions with certified products
Using certified security products such as doors, locks and windows reinforces the protection of your belongings and gives you a sense of extra security.
We wish you a safe and peaceful Christmas holiday!