By the time you finish reading this blog post at least two burglaries will have taken place and one of them may even have been on a street near you…
The effects of a burglary can be devastating with victims losing their confidence and peace of mind, as well as their possessions or money.
According to a recent survey*, 74% of homeowners say their most expensive possession is not the most valuable to them. 41% of homeowners identified photographs as their most treasured possession, followed by items that have been inherited at 13%, letters at 12% and jewellery at 10%.
There are many different things people consider to be most valuable to them, whether it’s a top of the range TV or simply a photograph of a loved one.
The security experts at Yale know that – unlike things like televisions or DVD players – items of sentimental value are often irreplaceable. With this in mind, Yale’s new ‘Heart & Home’ campaign is here to help you protect everything that is dear to you in 2014.
Most burglaries take place when a house is empty, so if you leave your home unattended for any length of time it’s important to make sure it’s properly secured. You can do this by ensuring all doors and windows are fitted with secure locks in line with British Standard BS3621:2007. In addition, Euro profile cylinders that are used on PVC and composite doors should conform to the British Standard TS007.
Another great way to secure your property is by installing a house alarm. The Home Office recently interviewed imprisoned burglars and 84% of them said they would not willingly enter a building where a working alarm was fitted. Statistics also show that 60% of attempted burglaries carried out on properties fitted with alarms are unsuccessful, making them an excellent form of protection and a deterrent for prospective criminals.
So whether you’re going away on holiday, or simply turning the lights out after a long day at work, a fitted home alarm system can offer complete peace-of-mind, protecting your belongings, and – most importantly – you and your family.
For more information on keeping your family, valuables and treasured possessions safe in 2014 please visit www.yale.co.uk and check out our infographic below.
Please include attribution to yale.co.uk with this graphic.
So scary that most burglaries are when you are probably in (eve and night!)