Protect your home this autumn

The dark nights of autumn can lead to an increase in break-ins and burglaries, so it’s important to ensure your home and garden security are kept up to scratch.

As autumn approaches, and the nights draw in, we’re reminded of the importance of upgrading our home security. Opportunists often operate under the cover of darkness, and so it’s no surprise burglary rates tend to increase at this time of the year.

To help ensure your home security is providing the highest level of protection for your home, family and possessions, our team here at Yale have shared their top tips to keep your home safe and secure throughout autumn, winter and for the rest of the year.

Guard your garage

We often talk about front door security and how important it is to remember to lock your door when at home and when leaving the property, however, it’s important not to forget about your garage door.

Homeowners can often leave their garage doors open, making it easier to get the car in and out without having to unlock it, or maybe even due to the fact it can’t close or lock properly.  Garages are often filled with household goods, power tools, expensive bikes, garden furniture and power tools, so it’s important to take precautions to protect these valuable items.

Check the garage lock is working correctly and if not, replace with a new lock or a weatherproof padlock and hasp to secure it. Inside the garage, make sure all valuable items are secure, including any bikes, using the appropriate locking mechanism, i.e. a high quality bike lock. You can also secure any garden furniture using a cable and padlock.

To deter any potential intruders, security lighting outside the garage will detect any movement and light up the area. If used with a smart security camera, it’s also possible to record or view any unusual activity outside of the property as and when it happens.

Protect the perimeters

When scoping out a property burglars will use the shield of trees, bushes and overgrown shrubbery and approach the home undetected. This is why it’s essential to ensure any greenery is maintained sufficiently to disrupt any opportunist’s entry plans.

As the nights get darker, it’s essential to have sufficient security lighting in place around the property. Security lighting can lighten up the garden and the perimeter of the home, whilst also deterring any unwanted opportunists and highlight any unusual activity surrounding the property.

During the summer it’s easy to leave garden furniture, ladders and other gardening equipment outside, however when the autumn and winter months come around, it’s important to lock these items away. Storing these securely will not only keep them safe when not in use, but can also ensure these aren’t used during a burglary attempt.

A smart welcome home

As the nights get darker earlier, it’s important to feel like you’re coming home to somewhere where you can feel safe and secure.

Having an alarm system set up in the home can provide protection over the property whilst you’re out in the day or during the night, giving you the confidence that your home is protected. And with a smart alarm system you’re in control of the security of your home, from anywhere at any time. A smart alarm system can give you peace of mind knowing your home is protected while you’re out, and with an external bell box acting as an additional deterrent, you can be sure your home is secured against any opportunistic burglars. 

Investing in a smart alarm which works with a smart plug also lets you control the timing of the lighting inside your home. Programmed to come on at a certain time, you can make sure the lights are on when you get home. Not only does this create a warm welcome home for you, but also acts as a deterrent to opportunistic thieves, making the house appear occupied.

We’ve all started to lead busier lives and using smart technology to secure our homes can help to make our day-to-day lives easier. Having a smart lock not only lets you check your door is locked while you’re away, but also lets you open your door remotely.

So, when you’re coming home, there’s no need to search through your bag or pockets for your keys whilst out in the dark. With a smart lock it’s possible for you to unlock your door as you approach your home, by simply using your smartphone.

To find out more about Yale can help keep your home secure, please visit your regional site.