Everest industry news
Bank holiday travellers urged to keep homes safe
30 April 2008
Homeowners planning a bank holiday retreat this weekend are being reminded of the importance of home security.According to recent research by Zurich Insurance, most burglars are opportunistic and ready to pounce on empty and unprotected properties.
Police in Devizes have issued a specific warning to locals, following a raid on a house in Bromham, in which sentimental jewellery was targeted.
Sergeant John Lee told This is Wiltshire: "We would remind people who are going off on holiday to tell their neighbours and perhaps arrange for someone to come in and switch on lights to give the impression someone is still around.
"Also, don't leave valuables in places that thieves are likely to make a bee-line for, such as the dressing table. Put them in the bank or in an unusual place that no-one would think to look."
Zurich interviewed a number of burglars and found that two-thirds would be deterred by the presence of neighbours watching an empty home.
Home security experts also recommend additional locks on windows and doors, security lights or a burglar alarm system.
Strong double glazing can also act as a deterrent, as it is much harder to penetrate than regular window glass.
