Keep your property safe during the holiday

The festive season is around the corner. You're putting together shopping lists, rounding off projects at work, and planning your travels or staycation. But, just because you're taking a break doesn't mean crime will. Home break-ins spike around this time so it's also important to pump up your home security. As real estate experts, De Lucia Group knows how to keep your home safe, ensuring your December is full of joy and happy memories. 

Identify your break-in hotspots

Your home is your haven but it might not be as burglar-proof as you think. Take time to survey your home and look out for weak areas. Burglars often enter through the front door so ensure hinges and frames are intact. Windows are another point of entry and should have burglar guards at the very least. If entry to these areas isn't possible, intruders will turn to secondary doors like garages, side entrances, or trap doors. These should be secured with locks and security gates. 

Set up an alarm system

Now that you've figured out problem areas, work towards securing them. Installing an alarm system combined with armed response is a good start. This offers basic protection and acts as a deterrent to would-be intruders when triggered. Modern alarm systems even allow you to monitor and switch them off remotely. Your armed response company is your partner in property safety. During your holiday, you can let them know you'll be away so they take greater pains to watch over your property. 

Install CCTV cameras

The mere presence of CCTV cameras can be enough to deter criminal activity. CCTV cameras provide peace of mind since they can help you monitor blind spots on your property. Many CCTV cameras can be programmed to be viewed on your smartphone so you'll always be able to keep an eye on your home wherever you go. CCTV cameras are also relatively inexpensive in the long run since they require little maintenance. And, because they make your property less of a risk, they can even help reduce your home insurance premiums. 

Hire security guards

Like CCTV cameras, security guards act as a visual deterrent to criminals. They're excellent if you have a large property - they can patrol the area and ensure all parts are covered. The human element here means guards can switch up their routes and make it more difficult for burglars to pinpoint the right time to strike. Experienced guards can even recognise and negate threats before they happen. For buildings and complexes, guards also play a vital role in welcoming and vetting visitors before they enter the premises.

Put up electric fencing

Electric fencing is another effective way to keep your property safe. There are different types depending on your needs. You can have electric fencing to prevent someone from scaling your walls or trying to dig under them. These make it much more difficult for a burglar to access your premises. They can even be linked to your alarm system and trigger an alert if touched or tampered with. Electric fencing comes with a backup power source so they will keep going even during load shedding. Finally, they are cost effective; electric fencing can be built on your existing fencing infrastructure and resists rust and weather damage.

Landscape your property

Sprucing up your garden doesn't just boost your property's appeal. It's also a necessary way to make it a safer space. Trimming bushes and trees can remove potential burglar hiding areas. The neatening of foliage can also increase your line of sight and prevent your alarm monitoring sign being obscured. Planting thorny trees and bushes can provide an additional line of defence, while crunchy gravel can alert you to an intruder's presence. Adding lighting in the area will also assist in keeping an eye on the area. 

As you wind down for the year, don't forget to prioritise your property's safety. Homeowners and landlords should take every measure to ensure their spaces are safe and sound during the festive period. De Lucia Group can tighten your security with our property management services. Send a message or call Michael De Lucia directly on 082 493 1089 to get started.

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