PREVENTION

How to protect your possessions against  burglary. (AXA ART)

• Intruder alarms should always be set (even during the daytime) whenever you leave home - even for the briefest periods.
• Make sure that doors and windows are locked when you leave home.
• Remember to also secure any accessible windows on the upper floors.
• Many thefts are “opportunist” - always check who you open your door to and ask for identification from tradesmen. Never leave strangers unattended.
• Simple time switches, which can regularly turn on lights or play music, will make it harder for burglars to determine whether you are at home or not.
• Occupancy is often the best form of security. A regular inspection, at least twice a week, by family, staff or key-holders gives the impression of occupancy. This can be simply achieved by regularly empting your mailbox, adjusting curtains, blinds or shutters, and dropping rubbish into the dustbin in order to create the impression that someone is at home. In the winter they shall leave footprints in the snow and in the summer they can water your plants in the garden. Pets, especially dogs, improve the impression the house is occupied.
• You should always make sure that you can be reached whenever you are away from home for an extended period. You can do this by giving a neighbour, or your security company, a telephone number on which you can be reached. If you have a mobile phone, do not forget to take along a charging device.
• Never try to confront a burglar. If possible use the silent alarm button in your intruder alarm system to summon assistance, or telephone the police.

http://www.axa-art.co.uk/artprotect/advice-section/prevention.html