Remember to Secure Your Home on Guy Fawkes Night

Burglary is theft from inside a property by a person who has no right to be there. The burglar is a trespasser first and becomes a burglar the moment an item is taken. It should be clear then that the first step in preventing burglary is to prevent trespass: that means owning good quality locks and making sure that you use them. 

Autumn Spike in Burglaries

Local insurance firm Aviva analysed 10 years’ worth of claims data and revealed that the worst night for burglaries is Bonfire Night! This is part of a general increase in housebreaking offences as the nights get longer. But Bonfire Night is by far the most dangerous night for burglaries. Aviva report a 22% increase in insurance claims for theft of goods from the home on Bonfire Night compared to an average day. The main reason for this seems to be householder geniality.

Unlocked Doors

If you are hosting a fireworks party in your back garden, it might be tempting to leave your back door unlocked so that guests can slip in and out to gather mugs of hot soup or use the toilet. If you have a large back garden and everybody’s attention is focussed on the ceremonial effigy-burning, this is a perfect opportunity for a burglar to slip in unannounced. Some people even admit to leaving their front door unlocked so that guests can let themselves in!

Out for the Night

At this time of year, burglars also know when people are likely to be out at Halloween and Guy Fawkes Night parties. The advice, as whenever you leave your home, is to ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked. Most burglaries are committed by chancers who might try every door in the street to see which one has been left open. Don’t let it be yours!

If you see someone acting suspiciously around your property, you are advised to call the police straight away. Remember, only call 999 if the crime is actually in progress. 

If you have lost a key to your home or car or suspect that it may have been stolen, you’ll want to change the locks straight away. Call our experts today on 01603 812613 or email admin@ptlockandsafe.co.uk.