Secure your house against break-ins
Burglars often strike during the dark winter months, holidays and festive season. After all, an empty home really stands out when it gets dark early. So what can you do to stop them? Our tips for a secure house that looks like someone’s at home will make things a lot more difficult for them so that you can head out to enjoy yourself without having to worry.
1. Lock the doors and windows properly
Whether you’re just taking the rubbish out or heading off on a round-the-world trip, always lock your doors and windows and don’t leave your keys in the lock. Burglars can get inside quicker than you think. If you have sliding patio doors, make sure you get a special lock, because break-ins happen more often with this type of door. Above all, make sure your locks have an SKG (Stichting Kwaliteit Gevelbouw) quality mark. This guarantees the quality and security of locks, cylinders and door fittings.
2. Install anti-burglary profiles and hinge bolts
An unlocked door can easily be opened a with a credit card. You can prevent this by installing anti-burglary profiles or a latch guard plate. Hinge bolts also make your doors and windows extra secure. They consist of a pin and a bushing, both made of tempered steel, that make it impossible to remove a door or window from the frame, even if the hinge is broken. When the door or window is closed, the pin fits securely into the bushing.
3. Use smart indoor and outdoor lighting
Burglars don’t want to be seen, so be sure to leave some lights on in your house with a time switch. Also invest in good outdoor lighting and make sure your front door and back door are well lit, as well as the shed or garage if you have one. Motion sensors near the front door and back door can be a good way to scare off unwanted visitors. This makes your house less attractive to burglars and gives you peace of mind.
4. Tidy up your house, garden and balcony
Put away valuable items like laptops and jewellery and make sure they can’t be seen from outside. Store valuable items in a safe. Putting your valuables away securely will reduce the risk of burglary and losses. Burglars like to climb up to the first floor or onto the roof. Don’t leave ladders lying around and make sure your rubbish bins can't be easily moved. This will make it harder for burglars to get into your house. Also remember to put away any items lying around.
5. Ask your neighbours for help
If you’re going away for a while, ask your neighbours to pick up the post, open and close the curtains or clear the pavement if it snows. This will make it look like someone’s home.
6. Install an alarm system or cameras
Alarm systems and security cameras scare off burglars. If you have an alarm system, be sure to test it before you go away. Cameras don’t just allow you to check up on the situation at home, they’re also a preventive measure. Making your home more secure will make it less attractive to burglars.
7. Don’t share holiday photos while you’re still away
If you use social media, burglars might see this. It’s safer to wait until you get home to share your adventures. That way, the burglars won’t know nobody’s home.
8. Join a Neighbourhood Watch group on WhatsApp
Together, you and your neighbours can make your neighbourhood more secure. You’re all the neighbourhood’s eyes and ears. Keep each other up to date in a Neighbourhood Watch group on WhatsApp and call the police the moment something suspicious happens.
Burglaries are dramatic events that cause losses and damage. ABN AMRO’s home contents insurance gives you peace of mind that your possessions are well insured.
- Insured up to €500,000
- Available 24/7 in an emergency
- Insured at both your old and new address when moving house