Tips to Secure Your New Portsmouth Home
Have you recently moved home to Portsmouth? Or maybe you’re a landlord renting out a property to tenants in the area? Keeping your property safe and secure is essential for feeling comfortable in your home year round, and even though Portsmouth is the safest city in Hampshire, there’s still plenty of things you can do to prevent break-ins or robberies.
Here at Saunders Locksmiths, we offer a range of locksmith services to Portsmouth and the surrounding areas of Hampshire. Whether you’re looking for a lock repair, replacement or 24/7 emergency support – we have you covered! Our team has come together to create this helpful and informative guide to keeping your home secure as well as how to deter burglars away from your property. Keep reading for more information!
Portsmouth Crime Rate Explained
While Portsmouth is considered the safest city in Hampshire, it’s important to not overlook how its crime rate stacks up compared to the rest of the UK – including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In comparison to other large cities in the UK, Portsmouth is amongst the top 20 with the highest crime rate, and the 6th most common crime is burglary, with over 1000 offences over the 2022 period.
This is why keeping your home properly secured is essential. Burglars can strike at any time, but there are steps you can take to protect your property and deter would-be burglars, and the team at Saunders Locksmiths are here to help!
Keep Burglars Out of Your Property
As a homeowner, you want to feel safe and secure in your own home. Unfortunately, burglaries can happen, even in the safest of neighbourhoods. However, there are several steps you can take to deter burglars and keep your home secure. Here are some tips to get you started:
Install High-Quality Locks: This is the first line of defence against burglars. Make sure all exterior doors have deadbolt locks, and consider upgrading to smart locks that allow you to control access remotely.
Keep Doors and Windows Locked: This may seem obvious, but many burglars gain entry to homes through unlocked doors and windows. Make it a habit to always lock up, even when you’re at home.
Use a Security System: A good security system can alert you and the authorities if someone attempts to break in. Consider installing motion sensors, security cameras, and an alarm system for added protection.
Be Strategic with Landscaping: Burglars often target homes that are hidden from view by trees, shrubs, or other landscaping. Keep bushes and trees trimmed, and consider adding exterior lighting to increase visibility.
Get to Know Your Neighbours: Neighbours can be a great asset in keeping your home secure. Get to know them and watch out for each other’s homes. Consider forming a neighbourhood watch group to deter crime.
Don’t Advertise Your Absence: Burglars often target homes that are empty. Don’t advertise your absence by leaving mail or newspapers piled up, and consider using timers to turn lights on and off when you’re away.
Secure Valuables: Keep valuables like jewellery, cash, and electronics out of sight and locked up. Consider using a safe to store important documents and items.
By taking these steps, you can help deter burglars and keep your home secure. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference when it comes to home security. Stay vigilant and stay safe!
What To Do If My Home Is Broken Into?
If your home has been broken into, it can be a very scary and stressful experience. Here are some steps you should take immediately after discovering a break-in:
- Call the Police
- Check for Damage
- Call a 24/7 Locksmith
- Document the Damage and Stolen Items
- Contact Your Insurance Company
- Secure Your Home
- Take Steps to Increase Security
Remember to prioritise your safety and the safety of your family in the event of a break-in. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe in your home after a break-in, consider staying with friends or family until you feel secure again. While a 24/7 emergency locksmith like the team at Saunders Locksmiths can provide you with assistance – replacing broken locks and securing damaged windows – you may still wish to stay away from your home for a few days. A burglary can be a scary experience and it’s important to take the time you need to fully recover from it.
For more information, contact Saunders Locksmiths now!
If you would like to know more about keeping your Portsmouth home safe and secure, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Saunders Locksmiths today! We’re only a phone call away and can’t wait to hear from you! In addition to emergency services, we also provide UPVC repairs and auto locksmith services, as well as information regarding lock-snapping and what the best doors locks on the market are!
