Just like the risk of insecurities risings in warmer weather, the darker evenings bring their own issues often increasing opportunities for homes to be left in darkness during the late afternoon and early mornings whilst householders are still at work.
Hampshire Constabulary have issued advice for Islanders as the nights draw in.
– Use timer switches (available from most D.I.Y stores) to switch on lights, radios while you are away from the home to make it look and sound occupied.
– Ensure you shut and lock windows and doors when you return home and settle down for the evening.
– Ensure you have used padlocks on the side gates to deny access to the rear of the property. Ensure your outside lighting is in working order (consider low level ambient light on a dusk to dawn sensor) this will activate even when you are not at home.
– After the summer, secure your garden tools and garden equipment in a locked and alarmed shed or garage for the winter so that they cannot be used to gain entry to your home.
– Properly mark belongings with your house number and postcode, keep a list of any makes, models and serial numbers. Take photos of jewellery. Register your items for free at www.immobilise.com. Using this service will assist the police in returning property to the rightful owner should it be stolen.
This is a good time to address your security, fit extra door and window locks. If you are feeling vulnerable or are elderly, ask for a free home safety and security survey by the Bobby Trust by calling call 0300 777 0157 for an appointment.
