As the clocks spring forward and the evenings become lighter, many of us relish the longer days and the promise of warmer weather. However, this change also signals a crucial time to reassess the security of our homes. At RJ Parker Locksmiths, we understand that keeping your home secure is a top priority, and conducting a thorough home security audit is the best way to prepare for the lighter evenings of spring and summer.
Why Conduct a Home Security Audit?
A security audit involves a detailed assessment of your home’s vulnerabilities, ensuring that you are not inviting potential intruders with lax security measures. Lighter evenings often lead to increased outdoor activities, which means homes can be left unattended more frequently. This shift can provide more opportunities for burglaries if homes are not adequately protected.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Comprehensive Home Security Audit
1. Assess Your Outdoor Lighting: Proper lighting is a deterrent to burglars. Ensure that all external areas of your home are well-lit. Consider installing motion-sensor lights that illuminate the approach to your front and back doors, as well as your driveway and garden paths. Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that provides good visibility and security without increasing your electricity bills.
2. Check Door and Window Locks: Doors and windows are the primary entry points for burglars. Check all locks to ensure they are functioning correctly and meet British Standard BS3621. Deadlocks on doors and key-operated locks on windows significantly enhance security. If any locks are worn out or outdated, consider upgrading them. RJ Parker Locksmiths offers a wide range of high-security locks suitable for all types of doors and windows.
3. Evaluate the Strength of Doors and Windows: Inspect the physical condition of your doors and windows. Solid doors and windows with security glazing or laminated glass will resist forced entry. Pay special attention to sliding glass doors, which can be vulnerable if not properly secured.
4. Install a Visible Alarm System: A visible burglar alarm system acts as a strong deterrent to potential intruders. Ensure your alarm system is functioning correctly and prominently displayed. Regular maintenance checks are crucial to prevent failures during critical times.
5. Secure the Perimeter: Check fences, gates, and boundary walls for stability and potential breach points. Repair any damage and consider using trellis and spiky plants to top boundaries and deter climbers. Lockable gates and garages add an extra layer of security and prevent access to the rear of your property.
6. Utilise Smart Home Security: Smart home technology offers innovative ways to monitor your home. From smart locks that send alerts to your phone to cameras that allow you to view live footage of your home’s perimeter, integrating smart home solutions provides peace of mind when you are away from home.
7. Check the Garage and Shed: Garages and sheds often house valuable tools which can be used to break into your home. Ensure they are securely locked and consider installing an alarm system in these outbuildings as well.
8. Remove Hidden Key Spots: Leaving a spare key under the doormat or in a flowerpot is an open invitation to burglars. Instead, leave a spare key with a trusted neighbour or invest in a secure key safe.
9. Join or Form a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme: Being part of a neighbourhood watch programme can significantly enhance security. These schemes foster community spirit and increase vigilance against suspicious activities.
10. Document Valuables: Keep an inventory of valuables, including descriptions and serial numbers. This documentation can be crucial for recovery and insurance claims in the event of a theft.
When to Conduct a Security Audit
It’s advisable to conduct a security audit bi-annually as a proactive measure. However, consider scheduling an audit if you have recently moved into a new home, after a burglary in the neighbourhood, or if you plan to leave your home unattended for a prolonged period.
How RJ Parker Locksmiths Can Help
At RJ Parker Locksmiths, we are committed to ensuring your peace of mind with our comprehensive range of locksmith and security services. From installing new locks to specialist keys and padlocks, we are here to help. Ensure that your home is prepared not just for the lighter evenings, but for year-round security.
Remember, a well-conducted home security audit could be the difference between a secure home and a vulnerable one. Take action today to ensure that your home is safe as the seasons change. For more advice, or to arrange a security audit, contact RJ Parker Locksmiths—your trusted partner in home security.