It’s an adjustment we make every year – when the clocks go back, the days become shorter and the dark nights last longer. But as a nation, do we take extra measures to keep our homes secure during the winter months?
Michele Bennett, General Manager at ADT UK&I Subscriber comments: “Our 2023 burglary report found that most burglaries occur at night, more precisely 37.5% in the evening (7pm – 12am) and a further 15.5% at night (12am – 6am). Opportunistic thieves prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. So it’s no surprise that the number of burglaries increases when the clocks go back and the nights get longer.”
“Your home is where you feel most secure, yet only one in five of us takes extra security measures when the dark nights draw in. By taking these extra security steps when the clocks go back this year, we can help to reduce the number of burglaries.”
Experts at ADT reveal their top 5 tips to make your home more secure when the clocks go back:
- Make it look like someone is home
Empty homes are more likely to be targeted by thieves, so it’s a good idea to make your home look like it’s occupied while you’re out. By turning on and off the lights or TV, you can trick opportunistic robbers into thinking you are home even when you are not. You can also control your home while you are away using your smartphone thanks to smart plugs.
With ADT Smart Home you can take it one step further and connect your smart plugs to numerous smart cameras at your home, so once movement is detected your lights automatically switch on.
- See who’s at the door
Even when you’re not at home, a smart video doorbell allows you to see, hear, and speak to visitors. In addition to letting the delivery person know where to leave a package while you are gone, they let you know who is at your door, even if they don’t ring the doorbell. The ability to receive notifications on your phone when motion is detected allows you to check on what’s going on outside your front door.
- Lock your sheds and outbuildings
An outdoor building is often an easy target, so protect yours with secure windows and strong locks. It is also worth investing in outdoor lighting, as the light can blow the cover of darkness for a would-be thief. The most effective option is motion-activated security lights that you can programme to your needs and wants.
- Get an alarm installed
The box on the front of your house will act as a visible deterrent.. ADT’s Burglar Alarm Package has touch screen control, clever ADT Smart Services connectivity and a deterrent siren, this user-friendly alarm system provides maximum peace of mind. Your alarm is also professionally monitored 24/7, so you, your keyholders or even the police are informed if your alarm is triggered. It is also advised that you set the alarm for when you’re away or even sleeping upstairs.
- Lock windows and doors
It takes no more than two minutes to lock your windows and doors before you go out or before you go to bed. This is a precautionary measure, but heading into the winter months when it gets darker much earlier, it is important to ensure your windows and doors are locked. Also, check your home to ensure all locks are in good working order. This will deter any opportunists looking for a quick win.
For more information on keeping your home safe in winter months, visit https://www.adt.co.uk//
