Isn’t sad that you have got to be worried about people breaking into your home and stealing your things? You work hard for the belongings that you have, only to have some mean spirited person rob you of them. Not only do you lose the joy of your belongings but you have the feeling of insecurity in your life. That can be harder to overcome. Neighbourhood Watch groups help deter these types of offenders. The Christmas season is just starting and break-ins are also increasing! This is the time of year when you ought to step up your security around the home to make it more difficult for this type of offence to occur.

These are some ideas that you can use to make it more difficult.

1. Check your security lighting is functioning
2. Check that all the window fittings are secure
3. Make sure that the windows are closed when you leave the house
4. Clear any bushes and trees away from your windows
5. Set the house alarm when you do go out
6. Think about using light timers when you go out at night
7. Close your curtains before you go out

These things will make it more difficult for anyone to know if you are at home or if you are out. These offenders don’t want to run into you either, so they are very unlikely to enter your home if they think anyone is inside.

My neighbours got broken into last night and had some items stolen from them which has reminded me that now is the time to be extra security conscious again. It also reminded of the time when I got burgled. How annoyed and violated I felt! Some stranger had been in my home and ransacked their way through my belongings, all these memories flooded back.

So this is just a reminder to all of you, take care of yourself, your neighbours and your community.