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SECURITY IN HOLIDAY HOMES AND SECOND HOMES |
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If you have a second home that is empty for extended periods of time then security is a subject that you are going to want to think about. To reduce the risks of your holiday home being burgled or damaged here are some guidelines that you may wish to consider: |
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- Don’t leave your curtains permanently closed. You should consider mechanical systems that open and close curtains to pre-set times
- Use timer switches to turn on some lights when it gets dark
- Make sure newspaper or milk deliveries are cancelled
- Ask a neighbour or someone who lives locally to look after your home
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| Statistics show that about a third of burglars gained entry through a window. Installing windows that are certified to British Standard BS7950 will provide an enhanced level of security and a further step is to fit laminated glass in the most vulnerable windows-usually downstairs and those near drainpipes and first-floor flat roofs. |
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| A less expensive approach is to fit key operated window locks (preferably visible from the outside) as burglars are less inclined to climb through window frames containing broken glass. Remember to use the locks that have been fitted and to keep keys out of sight although still accessible in the case of emergency. |
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| Before fitting any locks to UPVC or metal windows it is a good idea to contact the manufacturer/installer to check that you will not be in validating any warranties. |
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| Another alternative way of securing windows in holiday properties and second homes that are left empty for long periods of time is the fixing of decorative security grilles. These obviously need to be left open when the house is occupied so that no escape routes are closed off in the event of fire. |
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| Statistics show that two thirds of burglars gain entry through a front or a back door. In the event that you are upgrading your front door then selecting one that is certified to British Standard PAS 24-1 "Doors of enhanced security" would be a good move. Making sure that your doors are fitted with a chain or bar and some way of viewing who is seeking entry are all security enhancing measures along with fitting five lever mortise deadlocks (Kitemarked BS3621) Glass panels are ideally laminated and it is important to check that doors and frames are in good condition. |
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| For more information on securing your holiday home or second home you should obtain advice from your insurance company and you may also wish to follow some of these links to sites that specialise in this sort of information: |
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UK Government crime reduction site
ACPO Crime reduction site |
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