The best way to secure your home

The summer of 2020 has been different than we have previously witnessed. Among other things, this has meant that many have dropped the usual trips abroad. Our own Danish country, on the other hand, has been explored like never before. Not least because ferries have been free for pedestrians and cyclists, and other activities have been cheaper due to the summer package. Even though fewer people have taken the trip across borders, we have still been on excursions and trips within the country. Thus, it also makes good sense to secure your home, which you may have forgotten in all the chaos, but how can you help yourself to ensure that you do not get unexpected and unwelcome guests while you are away?

One of the first, easiest and most effective things you can do is to advise the neighbors. Set aside an hour to tell your nearest neighbors that you are traveling away for x number of days and ask if they will be particularly aware during this period. They do not have to put a great effort of work into it, just register if anything unusual is going on. A good idea would also be to ask them to empty the mailbox every day or every other day, to lock themselves in and water the plants, and take a stroll around in the house. You may not have any concrete chores that needs to be done; however, it is also a big help if your neighbors just walk around a bit in the house from room to room. It would be an advantage if they make sure to turn on the lights in the different rooms. One of the most important actions you can take in order to secure the home is to simulate a “real” home. By that, we mean a house where people are home (and not on holiday). This help prevent the burglary to want to break in.

Are you moving to a new neighborhood?

Contacting your neighbors may seem transcendent if you are a new resident or about to move into a new neighborhood. Some might think it is too much to ask. However, you should not be concerned about this. It is probably the vast majority who will interpret your approach as an annoying factor. On the contrary, most people will think that it is a good way to create good neighborly relations, and will be happy with the inquiry. And hey, you've already found some contacts in the new neighborhood! Furthermore, you can offer that you are available yourself should they need similar service. If you are in the situation where you have to move to a new home, you should of course also examine the change of ownership insurance. It does not help against burglary, but against hidden damage. It can thus secure the home in another way, but it must be obtained before moving in.

The simple things matter

When you need to secure your home, you just have to think logically. Therefore, one of the first things to consider is whether your home invites a stranger to break in. It may sound a little harsh, but you have to play the devil's advocate yourself. One of the things you might consider is how well your entrances to the home are tucked away. If you imagine a burglar finding your main entrance and a possible back entrance or entrance via the basement, can the person then stand undisturbed? For example, try standing in the different spots to see if the neighbor would be able to look at the thief, if there are large trees, shrubs or anything else in the way. If the person can stand undisturbed, the home seems much more attractive as it gives rise to less stress. The possibility of being caught is far less likely.

Good luck securing your home!