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Good morning, Below are proactive/preventative actions that can be taken as we head towards the clocks going back and longer nights. Rear Boundary Security Ensure rear fencing is in good condition with no damaged panels or easy access points.Ensure fencing is facing the correct way (Nice side facing out) as this prevents a climbing aid.Consider increasing fence height where appropriate and permissible, Install trellis topping, prickly planting (such as hawthorn, pyracantha or berberis), or defensive shrubbery along vulnerable boundary lines. Fencing can legally be 1.8m plus trellis making 2m in totalSecure rear gates with high-quality locks and ensure they cannot be lifted off their hinges.Improve Natural Surveillance Keep rear gardens well maintained and avoid creating hiding places with overgrown vegetation.Consider dusk to dawn lighting covering the property, side access routes and garden areas.Position CCTV cameras to cover rear gardens, patio doors, side gates and any areas offenders may use to gain access.First-Floor Security Offenders targeting first-floor windows often use: Flat roofsExtensionsConservatoriesGarden furnitureBinsLadders left insecureResidents should: Remove or secure ladders when not in use.Store bins away from walls and windows.Avoid leaving garden furniture beneath windows or balconies.Ensure first-floor windows are locked when unattended, even if slightly open.Consider adding defensive materials on flat roofsConsider the use of anti-climb paint on drain pipes, flat roof edges Protect Doors and Windows Fit and use key-operated window locks.Ensure patio and French doors are fitted with anti-lift devices and multipoint locking systems.Consider laminated glass or security film for vulnerable glazing.Check all locks meet recognised security standards. – BS3621Security Technology Use monitored alarm systems or smart alarms with mobile phone notifications.Install CCTV with good coverage of rear access points.Consider video doorbells linked to side or rear access routes where possible.If CCTV is installed/being installed ensure clear signage is also visableIncrease Occupancy Cues Use timer switches for lights when away.Ask trusted neighbours to keep an eye on the property.Avoid advertising holidays or periods away on social media.Property Marking Mark valuable property with forensic marking products or property marking schemes.Register valuables and maintain records of serial numbers and photographs.In-Home Security Advice Intruder Alarms Ensure a professionally installed alarm is fitted and routinely used, including when occupants are asleep.Consider systems with internal movement sensors on landings and stairways, as burglars entering through first-floor windows will often pass through these areas.Smart alarms that send notifications to mobile phones can provide an immediate alert.Secure High-Value Items Keep jewellery, cash, passports and small valuables in a properly secured and anchored safe.Avoid storing all valuable items in the master bedroom, as this is often the first room searched by burglars.Consider a safety deposit box for particularly valuable or sentimental items.Key Security Do not leave vehicle keys, house keys or key fobs visible through windows or in obvious locations such as hall tables, kitchen worktops or bedroom drawers.Use a key safe or discreet storage location away from doors and windows.Consider signal-blocking pouches for keyless vehicles.Property Marking and Asset Recording Register valuables on a recognised property database.Photograph valuable items and record serial numbers.Use forensic marking products or UV marking systems where appropriate.Internal Lighting Use timer switches on lamps to create the impression of occupancy when away.Smart lighting can provide a more realistic occupancy pattern.Bedroom Security As offenders entering through first-floor windows may initially access bedrooms: Keep jewellery and valuables out of sight.Avoid leaving handbags, wallets, watches and electronic devices on display.Secure important documents containing personal information.Limit What Burglars Can Find Do not keep large amounts of cash at home.Shred confidential documents before disposal.Store spare keys securely and not within the property in obvious places.Protect Digital Assets Enable tracking features on phones, tablets and laptops.Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication.Back up important data regularly to cloud storage or an external device.Simple Internal Security Checklist ✅ Set the alarm whenever leaving the house
✅ Keep keys and keyless fobs out of sight
✅ Store valuables in a secure safe
✅ Record serial numbers and photograph valuables
✅ Use timer-controlled lighting
✅ Keep bedrooms free from visible valuables
✅ Enable tracking on electronic devices
✅ Avoid keeping large amounts of cash at home ✅ Secure rear gates and fencing
✅ Install dusk to dawn lighting
✅ Lock all first-floor windows
✅ Remove climbing aids (bins, furniture, ladders)
✅ Use alarms and CCTV
✅ Keep gardens tidy and visible
✅ Report suspicious activity around rear gardens and fields immediately | 
