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Essex Police has launched a winter Darker Nights campaign giving advice on making your home more secure.
The Darker Nights campaign means you may see more police patrolling in your neighbourhood, particularly in the early evening.
Advice and tips
5 steps to make your home more secure
Here are 5 steps you can take to help make your home more secure.
Lock all windows and doors
Close and lock all windows and doors every time you leave the house or go to bed. Make sure that the door is locked properly i.e. lift the handle, turn the key and then remove the key. Keep it somewhere safe and easy to access for you but out of sight from prying eyes.
Use your alarm
If you have a burglar alarm switch it on even if just popping out for a moment, or zone off areas before going to bed.
Light it up
Leave lights on timers or radios on in the rooms you use the most.
Try using external lighting which are activated by a dawn to dusk sensor. If burglars see your house has security lighting, they are less likely to approach for fear of being seen.
Secure your garden
Secure your boundaries and ensure access to your back garden is not easily obtained and lock gates.
Keep sheds, your garage and other outbuildings locked securely, as they may contain valuable items or tools that may be used to break into your house.
Mark your property
Use forensic marking or other property marking methods to identify your property and display any product signage / labels.
Keep a list of your property including serial numbers and photographs. This can be done in a paper version or on an online asset recording product. Make sure you include details such as identifying marks, value, and purchase date.
Further information
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