The clocks go back this weekend, meaning you could get an hour longer in your bed on Sunday morning.
However, it also means that the days will be shorter, with dark evenings and mornings fast approaching as we head into this year's winter months. With increased hours of darkness, making sure your home is secure is as important as ever.
In a bid to help keep homes safe, security experts at ADT have shared some of their top tips for optimising your property's safety this winter. From making sure doors, sheds and garages are locked to installing an alarm if required, the experts are urging people to take the necessary steps to stay safe and secure.
5 ways to secure your home ahead of the dark winter evenings
1. Make it look like someone is home
An empty home is an easier target for thieves. Therefore, it is a good idea to make it look as if someone is occupying your property even if you are out and about.
For example, you could try tricks like leaving a lamp on or turning on and off the lights or TV in order to trick opportunistic robbers into thinking you are home even when you are not. You can control your home while you are away using your smartphone thanks to smart plugs, or even take it further by connecting smart plugs to smart cameras in your home. This means that any movement detected in your home will automatically switch on the lights.
You can buy smart plugs from various retailers, such ADT themselves or from Amazon - for example you can purchase Smart Plug Works with Alexa costing £17.99 for two here.
2. See who’s at the door
A smart video doorbell may be a good idea too. The device allows you to see, hear and speak to visitors even when you are not home. You can do things like let a delivery driver know where to leave a package as well as keeping an eye on anyone approaching your property, even if they do not ring the bell.
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.
3. 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.
4. Get an alarm installed
The alarm box installed at the front of your house can act as a visible detergent.
There are various alarm system options, such as 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.
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5. Lock windows and doors
It doesn't take you long, but making sure windows are doors are locked before heading to bed is hugely important. The precautionary measure could keep you safe, especially during the winter months when darkness is longer meaning thieves have more time to take advantage.
Also, check your home to ensure all locks are in good working order. This will deter any opportunists looking for a quick win.
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.”
