While the warm weather gives us all an opportunity to spend more time outdoors, the unfortunate reality is that sunny skies can also exacerbate antisocial behaviour and opportunistic burglaries within our communities.
How hot weather changes our habits
Hot weather has an impact on our usual routines; you may leave your doors or windows open to get a much-needed breeze in your home, or perhaps you and your family are spending more time in the garden. Or maybe the heat has you distracted, and you’re a little less security conscious that usual.
While perfectly understandable, these behaviour changes can unintentionally create security risks - the good news is there are a range of simple home security steps you can take which can make a big difference.
The home security experts at ERA share some dos and don’ts that will help keep your property protected and your neighbourhood safer while you soak up the sun.
Simple summer security tips
- When you’re craving some fresh air, try and open upstairs windows rather than easily accessible ground floor windows.
- Installing door and window alarm sensors will provide you peace of mind - they use magnets which trigger an alarm when disconnected, which will alert you through the ERA app, so you can keep an eye on potential entry points to your home.
- If you’re heading out for the day, just before you leave, make sure to check that all windows, doors, or other potential entry points to your home are properly secured.
- If you’re heading away for an overnight trip to the beach, or retreating to cooler climes, ask a trusted friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your property.
Sunny security mistakes to avoid
- Try not to leave your doors unlocked when you’re spending time in the garden - it’s easy to get distracted by outdoor activities like gardening or playing with the kids, which could provide an opportunity for someone to enter your home undetected.
- Don’t leave windows open wide when away from home - even upstairs windows. Window restrictors will allow you to get some air circulating while you’re out, while preventing anyone from accessing your property.
- Don’t forget to plan ahead - if the sunshine has you thinking about your upcoming summer holiday, make sure to consider your home’s security as part of your planning, whether that’s having someone periodically check on your property while you’re away, or creating a security checklist to complete before you travel.
- Don’t assume someone else will report suspicious behaviour within your community - if you witness antisocial behaviour, or something just doesn’t feel quite right, make sure to report this through the appropriate channels. This will help keep your home and your neighbourhood safer.
Stay safe this summer with ERA
Enjoy the sunshine - but don't let good weather lead to lax security habits. A few simple checks before heading out, going to bed, or leaving for your summer holiday can make all the difference in helping keep your home, belongings, and community safer.
To learn more about ERA’s range of smart home security solutions, visit https://eraprotect.com