WITH October seeing the return of National Home Security Month, Don Shulsinger from Blinkforhome, the video home security and monitoring system, gives tips and advice for keeping your family, home, and possessions safe.

1Light up

When there are bright lights around a home or yard’s exterior, burglars are less likely to target it. Schedule lights to come on at set times if you are away or on holiday.

2Lock up

Lock doors when you’re home alone. It’s not unusual for a burglary to occur while there’s someone in the house. It’s just as important to keep your doors locked when you’re at home so no one can break in.

The most common time to be burgled is between 10:00am and 3:00pm when thieves think people will most likely be out at work.

3Stranger danger

Don’t open the door to a stranger. Even if they say they’re from the council, the water board or the police you should be cautious about opening the door. A good idea is to have a peephole in the front door so you can screen visitors before opening the door.

4Social media smarts

Resist the urge to tweet or post that you’re on holiday or out at a concert or party and that your home is empty. Don’t give people insight into your goings-on. It’s best to update afterwards.

5Alerts

A dog can help you feel more secure and scare off intruders. A “beware of the dog” sign may help too. If you have a front garden or a car parking space, it’s worth thinking of putting gravel down as the noise can deter an intruder, or alert your dog if you have one.

6Hiding spare keys

Securely hide spare keys, doormats, flowerpots and fake rocks are not fooling anyone who’s determined enough to break in. Hide them securely or keep them with a friend, neighbour or family member.

7Security cameras

Install smart home technology. A good idea is to install a home security camera. There are many devices available that are motion activated and will record people entering your home, such as Blink.

Ideal for alerting you to a break-in, and recording an incident if all other measures fail. Blink lets you keep a watchful eye on your home via your smartphone.

Web: blinkforhome.co.uk