Security tips
Click here for some top tips from Sergeant Thompson a senior member of Merseyside Police.
- Money - is it safely stored?
- Windows - are they securely shut?
- If you need to keep windows open at night - have you put the alarm on?
- Keep blinds/curtains closed - only you need to know what's in your house.
- Keep keys handy for emergency exits - but not to attract unwanted entrances - and don’t leave your keys in the back door, especially if you have a cat flap
- Leave a light on in the porch or hallway - light deters prowlers.
- Downstairs is not the only way in - remember drain pipes, walls, lattice work, extension roofs and wheelie bins all give burglars a step up.
- Keep blinds/curtains closed - only you need to know what's in your house.
- Do your neighbour and yourself a favour - invite them to use your driveway while you're away.
- Leave your answering machine off, if possible, or check your messages as often as possible.
- Get a neighbour or friend to move your post to somewhere less conspicuous than your doormat.
- Remember to cancel your milk and newspaper orders while away.
- Will you need your grass cut or your bins put out? Ask your neighbour, you can return the favour when the time comes.
- Do you always live in darkness? Have your blinds/curtains open during the day.
- A timer for lights is a worthwhile investment and gives the impression that someone is at home.
Take a look at An Garda Síochána Crime Prevention Leaflet on Holiday Security
- Ensure that doors are locked and windows shut. Intruders may decide to make an entrance even when you are in the house, attending to children, working, relaxing in the bath or in front of the television.
- Don’t leave the keys under the mat or plant pot…it’s the first place anyone will look.
- File important documents like bills and bank statements in a safe place and destroy forgotten scraps of paper- this can cost you your identity.
- Before answering the door - check for unwelcome visitors.
- Are you the odd one out? If you’re the only house on your street with no alarm system, who will the burglar choose?
- Make sure your exterior alarm box is clean - this implies that your alarm has recently been serviced.
- Don’t leave your alarm code by your alarm control panel - it’s like attaching your address to your house key.
- Change your keypad code on your alarm from time to time and clean the keypad regularly - replace when worn.
- Test your alarm system regularly: just call our Customer Support department 1850 753 753 for a remote test or if you’re in any doubt that your alarm is in good working order.
Find out what the best security solution is for you and your home.
