Police Scotland: Festive Home Security Advice
Try and make your house look occupied.
Make friends with your neighbours. Ask them to take your bins in and out, gather up mail from behind the door regularly and collect any parcels that may have been left on your doorstep.
Allow them to park on the drive if you have one.
Fit timer switches on lights and set them to come on before it gets dark.
If you have a home smart device consider using smart plugs.
Ensure your locks meet BS3621 (http://ow.ly/5Q1E50LXb0a)
Keep car keys secure and hidden at all times.
If on holiday, take the keys with you.
Fit and use outside security lights.
Window locks should be fitted where appropriate and used all the time.
Do not leave the key in the lock.
Electronics are favourite housebreaking targets. These should be locked away or removed from view.
Add tracking software or security marks to electronics to make them harder to sell and aid in recovery if stolen.
Consider automatic curtain closers.
Consider an intruder alarm system. More information on alarm systems and monitoring at:
http://ow.ly/OWIN50LXb09 or http://ow.ly/ZZwq50LXb0c.
If you have an alarm, use it!
Consider a CCTV system to allow you to monitor your property remotely.
Secure your shed and all tools that could be used to force entry to your home.
Consider the use of a shed alarm.
Consider joining Neighbourhood Watch Scotland or setting up residents’ social media groups.
If you see anyone acting suspiciously near your premises, please contact the police immediately with a detailed description of any person or vehicle involved.
For further advice http://ow.ly/stC450LXb0b