22 Jul Helping You Stay Safe at Warfield Park: Simple Ways to Outsmart Burglars This Summer !

At Warfield Park, your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or heading off on holiday, it’s important to feel secure in your home. Burglars tend to look for easy opportunities – but a few simple steps can make your property far less appealing to them.

Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe and keep burglars at bay – especially during the summer months.

🌙 Summer Security: Don’t Make It Easy for Them

Lock windows and doors before going out or heading to bed – If you’re going away, use timer switches to turn lights on and off, and avoid leaving curtains closed during the day – it signals an empty house.

Remember: burglars don’t want to be seen or heard. They rely on staying hidden, so removing their hiding places is a smart move.

🌿 Give Them Nowhere to Hide

A well-kept garden doesn’t just look nice – it’s also a powerful deterrent:

Keep front boundaries low (around one metre) so neighbours can see any unusual activity.

Use taller fences at the back and sides for added security (seek advice from the office at MacLaren house)

Add thorny plants or anti-climb spikes to fences and gates.

Consider gravel driveways or paths – the sound of footsteps can be an early warning.

🎥 Smart Security: CCTV and Lighting

 CCTV can be a great tool when used correctly. Opt for cameras that:

Are well-positioned to capture clear facial images.

Record motion day and night.

Can be viewed on your smartphone in real-time.

Display CCTV signage and check your system complies with privacy laws. Always use NSI or SSAIB approved installers.

Lighting is key: install motion-activated or dusk-to-dawn lights near doors. Keep bushes trimmed so lights aren’t blocked – and be mindful of your neighbours when positioning them.

🔔 Alarms: Let Them Know You’re Protected

An audible burglar alarm is one of the best deterrents:

Choose from monitored, unmonitored, or auto-dialler systems depending on your needs.

Install two visible alarm boxes (front and back), mounted high to prevent tampering.

Don’t forget clear alarm signage – it shows you’re not an easy target.

For accredited alarm suppliers, visit the National Security Inspectorate or SSAIB.

💡 Make Your Home Look Occupied

Use timer switches for lights and devices.

Choose LED bulbs – they’re energy-efficient and safer.

Don’t leave post piling up or bins out – it’s a giveaway you’re away.

Some burglars pretend to be someone they’re not to get into your home. They may:

Claim to be from a utility company, council, or care agency.

Ask for help – to leave a note, get a drink, or use the phone.

Work in pairs – one distracts you while the other sneaks inside.

Here’s how to stop them:

Use a door viewer or spyhole before opening.

Always keep the door chain on until you’ve verified who they are.

Ask for ID and verify it with the company – use numbers from official websites, not those on ID cards.

Close the door while you check.

Don’t feel pressured – rearrange for a time when a trusted friend or family member can be with you.

Consider setting up a password scheme for pre-planned visits from utility companies.

🚨 If you ever feel threatened or in danger, call 999 immediately.

By taking a few simple precautions, we can all help keep Warfield Park a safe and secure place to live. If you’d like more personalised advice or information, don’t hesitate to reach out to the park office.

Stay safe and enjoy your summer!

#SafeAtWarfieldPark #WarfieldWatch #CommunitySafety #PeaceOfMind #NeighbourhoodWatch