Winter also brings one more threat for all of us. Winter burglaries and thefts during the long and dark hours is common. Many residents are helpless on the attacks. The police and the authorities in deed are clueless about the house break ins. Here are some tips to be safe at home during winter.
Safe homes
What is the use of our wealth if we cannot enjoy them? It is ultimately satisfying to show off our possessions, but may not be safe always. House burglaries are on the rise during winter. Home safety is a must for all of us. The thefts are more in Quad cities than the state and nation average. It is alarmingly surprising the rate and efficicieny with which these burglaries are carried out. However, here are some tips to be safe.
- Secure your belongings
- Never store costly jewellery at home
- Store most of the gold coins and jewelery at the safe lockers at the local banks
- Wear your jewelery instead of storing them
- Secure the laptops and other electronic devices
- Keep the blinds and windows closed during the dark hours
- Store cash and other valuables in not common placers such as kitchen or store room
- Leave the lights on if you are going on a long journey or out of town trip
- Let your radio or TV run for a timed period when you are not at home
- Inform a neighbour or friend to keep a watch on the home
- Set security devices, cameras, or burglar alarm systems if possible
- Storing the valuables in a ziploc and keeping them in an old paint box or soda can may help
- Do not leave any valuables in the car or in the visibility so that you may attract the thieves
- Do not leave the garage keys in easy to reach places
- Insure the house and list all the valuables however small it is
Burglary
Irrespective of where we store the items, we must be aware that the thieves are smart enough to carry metal detectors which set off and give away the secret place. In case of a burglary or house break in:
- Report to police immediately on 911
- Stay out of the area until cops arrive
- Report to all the local authorities
- Check with your local pawn brokers
- Changing the locks is a good idea
- Spread the word among friends and families so that they are aware of the incident
- Check with the insurance agency about submitting the claims and the recovery process
- Follow up the investigation
Most of the times we may wonder why it has happened to us. It may be a pure unfortunate timing or bad luck. But, it is important to stay alert and focused. Let the incident not affect and traumatize you as the life has to move on beyond any happenings. Remember that children pick up the tensions from you and let them not get affected by the incident.
What are the safety practices you follow? How do you secure your belongings? Let me know your best practices. 🙂