Our Operations Manager, Russell Hawkins shares his top tips on how to keep safe this winter:
Keep Your Home Safe This Winter 🎄✨
Cold nights, dark evenings, and homes full of presents can make this time of year tempting for burglars. Luckily, a few simple steps can help keep your home safe and give you peace of mind!
🏡 Home Security Tips
🔒 Lock doors and windows
It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget! Make sure every door and window is locked — even when you’re inside. Upgrade to strong locks or deadbolts or pop a rod or dowel in sliding doors so they can’t be forced open. Avoid hiding spare keys outside.
📹 Add a security system
Smart cameras, alarms, and video doorbells are great for keeping an eye on your home. A simple alarm sticker or visible camera can be enough to put burglars off.
💡 Light up the outside
Thieves love the dark. Motion-sensor lights can startle them and make your home look less appealing. Smart lights are handy — you can control them from your phone wherever you are.
🎁 Keep gifts hidden
A tree full of presents looks magical but can tempt opportunists. Keep gifts out of sight from the street and close curtains when possible.
🕒 Use timers to look “home”
Set lamps, TVs, or radios to turn on at different times. It’s an easy way to make it seem like someone’s around when you’re not home.
🔧 Lock garages and sheds
Don’t make it easy — thieves can use tools from your shed to break in. Keep these spaces locked and, if possible, covered by your cameras or lights.
📱 Be social-media smart
Hold off on posting holiday plans or photos until you’re back. Check your privacy settings too.
👋 Rely on neighbours
Good neighbours make great security. Let a trusted one know if you’re going away so they can keep an eye out.
