Homeowners not taking simple security measures

Householders are making burglars' lives easier by not taking simple security measures to protect their properties and gardens, according to research from Direct Line Home Insurance.

Nearly half (44%) of those surveyed said they did not take simple measures such as locking sheds and outbuildings and two-thirds (66%) of people did not lock gates, side passages or garden entrances. Only one in four people (27%) chain up bikes, tools, and other items kept in outbuildings, leaving easy spoils for thieves.

The rush to enjoy the summer could have a negative effect on people's security considerations, despite evidence that, after June, August is the most common month for burglary. Half (49%) of burglary victims surveyed were victimised during the day, and more than a third (37%) of burglaries happened while the householders were at home.

Few householders take more permanent measures to make their homes less attractive to burglars, with just one in four (28%) installing gates or fences and only one in ten planting prickly hedges (12%) or putting gravel on their drive (11%).

Andrew Lowe, Head of Home Insurance at Direct Line, says: "There's a strong temptation to take advantage of the good weather by opening doors and windows as soon as the sun comes out, but people should take extra care to prevent unwanted access to their homes and gardens, as carelessness can lead to rich pickings for opportunistic thieves. We suggest that householders ensure that there are no ladders or tools left in the garden where they could be spotted by burglars and used to help them break in. They should be kept in a shed or garage with adequate locks fitted."

Direct Line's home security tips:

When nobody is in your home, lock all outside doors and windows.

When you are home, don't leave outside doors or windows open if you're not in the room.

Put tools away and lock garden gates, sheds and garages to minimise opportunities for thieves to gain access.

Security-mark your valuables with your postcode and house number, or keep a photo or video of them. If you are burgled, it will be easier to identify and recover your possessions and it can help when you make a claim.

Fit deadlocks or key-operated security bolts to all external doors.

Fit a good quality, approved alarm - look out for British Standard BS4737 - and make sure you activate it, including at night.

Fit key-operated metal locks to all your accessible windows.

Never leave keys in a lock, within view of the door, or in a ‘secret' hiding place like under the mat - burglars know where to look.

Visit directline.com for more advice on keeping your home secure.

For more tips on securing your home, please visit: directline.com/home/home-security.htm