We’re one of the most experienced suppliers and installers of home alarm systems in NZ. As far as crime deterrents go, our high-tech alarm systems are near the top of the list. Criminals know that they have little chance when they’re up against the type of security products we install in Auckland homes and businesses. But there are other things you can do to deter would-be offenders.
A British insurance company recently conducted a survey about deterrents and they got their information straight from the horse’s mouth. You guessed it, they asked 12 former burglars for the things that made them reconsider their plans to steal from homes and cars. The lists make for very interesting reading. Besides home alarms systems, here are their 10 biggest deterrents for home burglars:
- A CCTV camera
- Sound of a barking dog
- Strong, heavy doors
- A TV that is switched on
- Locked UPVC windows
- Cars parked on the driveway
- An overlooking neighbouring property
- Surrounding fences
- Gates outside the property
- Motion-activated security lights
As for car thieves, here are their biggest deterrents:
- CCTV street camera
- Car alarm
- Street lighting
- Car is parked on a driveway
- Newer vehicle
- Steering lock device
- Older car
- Neighbourhood Watch-designated areas
- Immobiliser
According to the ex-crims in the survey, nearly half of them said that most thieves are opportunists who walk the streets looking for places with weak security. If faced with a difficult break-in that would attract attention, they’d probably try elsewhere. Sadly, the survey found that many people make it incredibly easy for them to do their worst. The insurance company surveyed 2,000 people about their home and car security and found that 28% of adults took absolutely no measures at all to protect their property. 55% said they slept with their windows open at night, 24% left their doors unlocked while they were at home, and 12% left their garden gates open. To cap it off, 20% of respondents said they posted photographs online showing they were on holiday, which just drew attention to the fact their house was empty.
The moral of the story? Don’t make it so easy for opportunistic thieves. Basic security measures will deter the vast majority of them, while cutting-edge products will ward off the more determined of them. To make life deservedly difficult for those who want to take your property, contact us and we’ll help you protect what is rightfully yours.