It’s that time of year again when we go spend crazy trying to get those perfect pressies for our loved ones. But with dark nights and the promises of plentiful hauls, it’s also a ripe time for the burglars. Even the small presents are worth stealing because they are sealed and easier to sell on at boot fairs or on the web. So now is also a really good time to check your security precautions.

In the home:

Are your locks insurance standard? If you have a wooden door, with a mortice* deadlock, it must be one with at least five levers and should carry a kite mark. Kite marked mortice locks give your insurer less chance to back out, and tell the would-be burglar that you mean business. Remember, they are lured in by the presents under the tree, but they are also likely to take the stuff that has sentimental value to you that can never be replaced. Along with that, many victims tell me of long lasting feelings of violation that lead to sleeplessness and anxiousness. If you have a nightlatch* type lock then this too must carry a kite mark. Some insurers might allow you to not have kite marked locks if you have two or more on the same door, but you should really check this with your insurer. If you have a door with handles that must be lifted, you don’t need the kite mark…for now. But the standard cylinders are weak against an attack called ‘cylinder snapping.’ And it takes less than a minute with no power tools required. The damage can be extensive enough to require a complete new door. Kite marked cylinders have been on the market for a few years now, but they have various star ratings and you should consult a good local locksmith for advice. Remember, the cheaper ones are cheaper for a reason. It is worth noting that sensor lights put burglars off and while cctv and alarms might alert you to the fact someone is in your home, they are retrospective rather than a deterrent (unless very obviously present). You might draw your curtains early if you expect to be out late, but sometimes that can be just as obvious as open curtains at night (burglars work in daylight as well). Interior lights on timers and neighbours to draw curtains at an appropriate time or getting the bin back from the road on bin day, will all help. If you have invested in a good car cover for your vehicle, the chances are, you have a pretty good car  underneath it, and if the car is there, then there is a good chance the keys are in the house. Stealing a car from a drive way is easy, especially when most of us leave our car keys near the front door (I am often able to fish keys through a letterbox). Talking of letterboxes, get a cage for the inside of your door. Not only will it stop you having to reach so far down to get your letters, it also stops a variety of attacks that come through the letterbox. Many of my entries for people who have locked themselves out, involve using my tools to get through their letter box.

Out Shopping:

If you are buying lots, make several trips back to the car to deposit your items in the boot. If you are over burdened, it is easier for bag snatchers to make off with your handbag, or even snatch one of your bags. Remember, anything sealed is much easier to sell these days, so the opportunist cannot fail. But when depositing your goods in the boot, look around to see if anyone is watching you. Anything on display in a car is a magnet for thieves, be it a sat-nav, mobile phone, CDs, loose change, or even a packet of cigarettes. Got two cars? Take the older, plainer one shopping for Christmas. It may be seen as less of a beacon of wealth and less likely to be hiding more expensive goodies. Put money and cards separate, about your person (remember the bag snatcher) and in pockets you wouldn’t normally put your wallet in. The different to normal feel, will make you more aware if someone does manage to pick pocket. Dress down – who’s going to try and steal from someone who looks like they have nothing worth taking?

Don’t have a spoiled Christmas. My tips are just a few of many. Look elsewhere and take advantage of free security from decent local locksmiths.

If you have any questions about any of the above, please feel free to get in touch via any of the methods on my contacts page.

Thanks for reading