Checkatrade shares cheap methods to deter home burglaries

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 2 Nov, 12:04 · Archive

Checkatrade has identified six affordable ways to prevent burglaries, including light timers costing as little as £11.

Checkatrade research based on Freedom of Information requests to police departments across the UK found that 86% of regions polled saw a consistent jump in residential burglaries in the months immediately following the autumn clock change compared to the spring season.

In response, the company has shared affordable security methods households can implement. Emma Grant, Director of Trade at Checkatrade, said: 'As the nights draw in, dark and unlit homes can unfortunately become an easy target for opportunistic thieves.' She added that the analysis shows a clear link between longer, darker evenings and an uptick in break-ins.

One of the most effective deterrents identified by Checkatrade is simulating occupancy through internal light timers. These devices can be bought online from as little as £11 and plug into existing lamps, turning them on and off randomly to realistically simulate someone being home. Grant said: 'This might sound simple, but it works incredibly well, and is a great method for homeowners to feel safe quickly.'

Other recommended measures include securing windows and ensuring all external doors feature British Standard (BS3621) approved locks, with cylinder locks on uPVC doors being anti-snap certified.

How it is being reported

• 6 cheap ways to deter burglars from your home including £11 methodThere are a number of cheap ways to deter burglars, including having a gravel path and getting indoor light timersOxford Mail · 2 Nov, 11:39
• 6 cheap ways to deter burglars from your home including £11 methodThere are a number of cheap ways to deter burglars, including having a gravel path and getting indoor light timersOxfordshire Guardian · 2 Nov, 11:39

In this story: Checkatrade · Emma Grant · UK

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