Huge change this weekend putting EVERYONE’S homes at risk of burglaries – 10 free ways to protect yourself
A SECURITY expert has revealed how to protect your home from the risk of burglary.
Locksmith Elizabeth Jones said that the shorter days will see a rise in burglaries and attempted burglaries.
The darker nights mean intruders have a longer window of opportunity so "additional precautions" should be taken to secure your home, said Elizabeth.
The security expert urged Brits to have the "best level of security" on their windows and doors.
Elizabeth, company director at locksmith L&E Ltd, told the Sun: "The main thing we advise is that all UPVC and composite doors have snap -resistant locks installed."
According to the expert 'Lock snapping' is one of the main techniques used by burglars to gain access to homes.
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This is because it's a quick way of gaining access to a property without creating too much noise.
Robbers can use this method to enter and leave efficiently and quietly - often, without you finding out until the morning.
"Installing snap resistant locks in all your doors means that they can still snap the lock - but this will not open the door, keeping your home secure," she said.
"The markings on these locks will also generally deter them from even trying. This is a basic level of door security we advise everyone to have," she added.
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For anyone looking for extra security Elizabeth advised seeking professional recommendations from a locksmith, like hers.
She said: "As a business we have found through our years of experience and attending properties after burglaries that there are other small things that you can make sure you do, to help prevent them".
This includes checking all your doors and windows are locked before going to sleep at night.
Another simple way to keep your home secure is ensuring there are no valuables on display.
Importantly, making sure car keys are hidden away is fundamental as these are a "high target" for thieves, she added.
She warned: "Do not leave car keys near a letter box - we have known people to leave keys on a table near the front door. Keep them hidden!"
If you plan on going out one evening, she recommends keeping a light on or keeping curtains closed.
The expert also recommended coming together as a community to ward off any potential crime.
"We often have found that they target a number of properties in the same areas at one time," she said.
She added: "It is always useful to set up neighbourhood watch groups.
"Maybe a closed Facebook or Whatsapp group just for the residents on your street, estate, or surrounding area.
"People can then report if their is any suspicious activity, post suggestions on security, and watch out for each other."
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Elizabeth previously shared simple tips to avoid being burgled in the colder months.
This included ensuring you bin anything that has branding for high-cost items, such as TVs or games consoles - as opposed to leaving them loose outside.