One issue we’re often called in for is locks that have been tampered with in burglaries. Everyone wants to keep their home as secure as possible. No one wants to come back after a hard day to find it broken into. The trouble here is people do certain things that’ll make them targets for criminals. We are going to explain what they are here so you can avoid them in future. Then, if you need an emergency locksmith in Chigwell, you can speak to us.
No notes for the postman
The first mistake is leaving a note for the postman. Countless people do this. They expect a package but realise they won’t be there. What they do is leave a note on the door asking the postman to leave the package somewhere. However, it is a massive sign to a potential burglar that the property is empty. You may worry your parcel will be stolen if it remains on the doorstep, but it’s not worth advertising you are not home to burglars.
Most delivery services today permit you to change your delivery preferences. This is possible online or through an app. If you’ll be away, attempt to rearrange things or leave instructions through these channels; it is considerably safer than leaving a note.
Faulty locks
The second mistake is having a faulty lock. It may sound straightforward, but if your lock isn’t working properly, burglars will see it as an open invitation. They get inside through unlocked or open doors or windows in over half of all unoccupied houses. That means more people than you think are leaving windows and doors unlocked. Most burglars prefer to be in and out. So, if they find your house unlocked, they will likely go inside.
If a burglar discovers your door locked but in disrepair, they could force it easily. Should they find your door secure and equipped with a decent lock, they’re not as likely to gain entry. Such a lock will take them longer to work on, increasing the chance of someone spotting them. If you think your lock needs repairing or replacing, contact the best emergency locksmith in Chigwell.
How accessible is your garden?
You may also have an easily accessible garden. Burglars love their privacy, so the back garden is an excellent spot for someone to break in. They’re not as likely to be spotted by a passer-by or neighbour. Installing a secure gate and high fence will deter criminals from using your back garden to break in. The majority of burglars won’t like the challenge of climbing an 8-foot fence. Saying this, you don’t want the garden to have too much coverage. It can attract burglars if there is a high fence as well as thick bushes and trees.
Leaving valuables on display
The last mistake is the most obvious one; people neglect to hide their valuables. Burglars use your windows like a shop. They’ll peak inside and see what is valuable. You are best off keeping it all out of sight.
Depending on where you live and what kind of home you have, you should keep your TV out of sight. If you’re unable to do this though, you must keep things like jewellery and laptops out of sight. Although, you might not want to hide them in the place you think of. Try to consider somewhere less obvious. Burglars tend to go for the master bedroom since it is where many keep their valuables. Because burglars don’t like to stick around, they may not take the time to find your goods if they are elsewhere.
We can take care of things when you need an emergency locksmith in Chigwell
At Locksmith Expert, we’re equipped to handle a wide variety of jobs. Our team always has the necessary tools on hand. When we arrive, we’ll work fast to solve the problem too, including repairing or replacing locks.
So, if you’d like to work with the leading emergency locksmith in Chigwell, give us a call. We’re here 24/7, ready to help after burglaries or to reduce the risk they will happen.