Tackle Opportunist Burglaries - Fast
The pandemic may have left most of us staying in more than ever before but the lockdown has not deterred burglars from targeting properties – whether...
Read Full ArticleThe Monday after the clocks have gone back is the worst day for burglary in the UK according to the Home Office. The news has prompted the security experts at Origin, the aluminium window & doors firm, to step up with some advice.
The manufacturer, which has high standards for hardware on its products, also analysed data from 41 police forces in England and Wales to identify peak burglary periods. The data reveals that just as we start to get darker evenings, the peak time for home burglaries kicks in. 864 were recorded on this day alone in 2023. This year, it falls on Monday 28 October.
Seasonal trend
October marks the beginning of the seasonal trend for burglaries with the majority (52%) of break-ins taking place between October and March.
Larger metropolitan areas including London, Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire are most likely to be affected, with these areas making up more than a third (37%) of all reported incidents last year. Outside of cities, Thames Valley, Lancashire and Hampshire are likely targets, according to the data analysis.
Making a difference
Dave Ginger, Origin’s in-house security expert, says: “As the days get shorter and evenings get darker, it's essential to prioritise home security. Those in this industry can advise our customers that simple steps like ensuring all external doors have high-quality locks, such as multi-point locking systems and secure frames, can make a significant difference.
“Windows, especially those on the ground floor, should be regularly checked and locked. If you’re considering new windows, look for those with voluntary security accreditations such as the police-preferred Secured by Design scheme, in addition to the mandatory PAS24 requirements.”
Lights
Ginger adds: “To illuminate dark areas and prevent potential burglars from approaching your home, I recommend investing in motion-activated outdoor lights or smart lighting systems. Finally, a well-maintained garden can act as a natural deterrent. By keeping gardens tidy and free of clutter, homeowners can reduce hiding places for intruders and improve visibility around their property.”
Picture: 28 October is the day when the burglary season hots up.
www.origin-global.com/advice-centre/safety-and-security-faqs
Article written by Cathryn Ellis
25th October 2024