Think like a thief this Christmas

Prudential Home Insurance has teamed up with reformed burglar Mark Whiteley to provide valuable advice to homeowners on how to best to protect their home this Christmas.

Mark Whiteley, ex-burglar explains: “When you’re considering home security, try to think like a thief. Most burglars are opportunists. If a burglar looked through your window this Christmas what would they see? It’s important to keep your presents out of sight, especially gadgets such as digital cameras, play stations and laptops which are easy to pocket and make for attractive sellable items on the black market.”

Alarmingly, one in ten (12 per cent) will hide their presents in front rooms or kitchen. A fifth (19 per cent) leave their Christmas presents scattered around the house leaving homes a Santa’s Grotto for any successful burglar. Just over half are hoping the burglar doesn’t make it upstairs and hide their Christmas presents in a bedroom (56 per cent).

Whiteley continues: “Imagine if you lost your keys how would you get back into your own home? Most burglars choose the easiest route, usually the back door, so always remember to take your keys out of the lock. Install simple security measure such as good locks on doors and windows and if you can afford it, an alarm - and remember to lock your ladders away.

“When you leave your house over Christmas make sure your home looks like someone is living in it. Don't leave your curtains closed in the daytime. This shows the house is empty; you may work in the daytime but so do burglars! Think about getting automatic time switches to turn your lights or a radio on when it goes dark. Finally, try and make friends with your neighbours who can keep an eye on your house when you’re not there.”

Phil Southgate, Media Relations Manager of Prudential Car Insurance, said: “I would urge people to review both their home security and home insurance during the festive period to make sure they are adequately covered. With over 11 million homesin the UK with no home contents insurance people should endeavour to get cover in the run up to Christmas. Those with home contents cover should talk to their insurance provider to make sure their level of cover is right and to get advice on the recognised security devices.”

Top 10 Home Security Tips from Mark Whiteley:

Think like a thief – try to break into your own home and then make it hard for a burglar.
“Rob me please!” – don’t kit out a burglar with the tools for the job. Keep ladders and tools locked up.

Keep hedges low, so burglars are exposed.

Lock all doors and windows when you go out, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

Install simple security devices to deter would-be criminals.

Don’t underestimate the power of your pooch – remember though that a dog is for life not just to look after your Christmas presents.

If you’re going away on holiday make sure your home looks occupied.

Keep your valuables out of sight.

Mark and log your valuables, and take a photograph of them too.

Make friends with your neighbours to keep an eye on your house.