The Most Common Home Security Threats in Hampshire and How to Protect Your Home

Keeping your home safe is always a priority, but with rising home security threats affecting homes during the darker months of October to March, homeowners need to be more vigilant than ever. Criminals are constantly finding new ways to target domestic properties, so it’s important to understand the most common security threats, and how best to protect your home from such threats.

Burglaries and home vulnerabilities

A recent report by security experts Origin found that Hampshire was the seventh most likely area in the United Kingdom to be affected by home burglaries. In many cases, burglaries are carried out by intruders breaking into a property at night, or when homeowners are out. 

Typically, burglars gain entry into homes using quick and opportunistic methods, such as:

1. Unlocked doors and windows – Burglars simply walk in through unlocked doors, or climb in through unsecured windows, especially on the ground floor. Always ensuring doors and windows are locked, even if you are at home, reduces the vulnerability to burglaries considerably.
2. Forced entry – Burglars commonly force their way into homes when the owners are away, using simple tools such as crowbars, or even simply kicking in a weak door. Upgrading to high-security locks and reinforcing doors with deadbolts makes it much harder for burglars to force their way in.
3. Lock snapping – Many uPVC doors, which are extremely common throughout the UK, feature cylinder locks, which burglars can snap in just a few seconds using household tools. Anti-snap euro cylinder locks are designed to prevent this technique.
4. Picking or bumping locks – More skilled burglars can silently gain entry into domestic properties by picking locks or using bump keys. Keyless smart locks or access control systems help prevent lock picking or bumping.
5. Breaking windows or patio doors – Windows, conservatories and doors with large glass panels are a common weak point exploited by burglars. Older sliding patio doors can be lifted off their tracks to allow for easy access. Laminated glass or extra window locks help to secure large glass openings.
6. Using the homeowner’s own tools – It’s quite common for burglars to access a homeowner’s own tools to break in, particularly if they are kept in an unlocked garage or shed. Ladders, tools, or even loose bricks found in the garden are commonly used by burglars. Locking away tools and outdoor equipment in a secure garage or shed prevents easy access. Installing security cameras and alarms on garages and outbuildings also strengthens home security.
7. Garage or side door access – Garages or side entries can provide easy access to the main house if not securely locked. Securing garages and side entrances with strong locks, and installing motion-activated lighting help prevent entry and deter criminals.
8. Exploiting weak security systems – Homes without alarms, CCTV or visible deterrents are much more likely to be targeted. A visible home security alarm system, security cameras, and motion sensor lighting help to deter break-ins, but also help alert homeowners or neighbours in the event that a home is attacked.

Burglars always look for the easiest opportunities, so addressing common home security threats and vulnerabilities can significantly reduce the risk. A combination of strong physical security, and smart, professionally installed home security systems are the best key to protecting your home.

Distraction burglary on the rise

We are seeing a rise in distraction burglaries in Hampshire. Rather than breaking into homes when the occupants are away, some burglars are using distraction techniques to trick occupants into letting them into their homes. This allows criminals to steal items, or at least get a closer look inside a house with a view to targeting it later at an opportune moment. In addition to distraction burglary, some criminals pose as tradesmen, demanding money for non-existent or poor-quality services. With distraction burglaries and rogue traders, very often, the victims are elderly or vulnerable people.

Home occupants can take steps to protect themselves against these crimes, such as using a door viewer and avoiding opening the door to strangers, or by using a door chain to make sure they cannot gain entry. Anyone posting as a trader should be asked to provide ID, and should be avoided until their identity is confirmed and checked with the company. 

Home security systems such as security cameras and smart doorbells are also vital for protecting against distraction burglars and rogue traders. Here’s how:

1. Deterrence – The sight of security equipment can be enough to make potential criminals think again. Knowing that they are being recorded will significantly reduce the likelihood that they will attempt any fraudulent activity, as there is a much higher chance of them being caught. Even the sight of an intruder alarm can be enough to dissuade criminals.
2. Identification – In the event that criminals commit a crime, or attempt a burglary, modern security cameras can provide high-quality images of facial details or license plates of vehicles. This is a great help in assisting the police, and can also be helpful in the event that other houses are targeted, even if the house with security systems in place isn’t.
3. Early response – Rather than being caught off-guard by a knock at the door by an unfamiliar person, modern motion detectors can notify homeowners if someone is approaching their home or acting suspiciously. 

Investing in smart security systems helps encourage homeowners to be much more vigilant about who they open doors to, helping reduce the risk of them being victims of distraction crimes.

Strengthen your home security

To upgrade your home security systems, or ask for advice on the best ways to protect your home, talk to us today. With decades of experience in installing intruder alarm systems, access control and CCTV systems for homes across Hampshire, we have the expertise to advise on and install bespoke security systems to meet your needs.