An ex-thief is warning people about five common faults they might make when leaving the house that can turn their homes into targets for burglars.
The former criminal, Lennox Rodgers, spent 21 years in prison and is now a security expert who knows exactly what burglars are looking out for. He gives property owners advice on how to keep their homes safe from criminals, reports MEN.
He predicts that the cost of living crisis will drive up the number of burglaries across Britain as criminals will look for easy ways to make extra money.
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1. Be mindful in the pub
Lennox says the easiest mishap people make when going away is telling people.
He said: "Pubs are a great place to hang around in and get chatting with people because after a few drinks, some people get a bit careless with what they're saying".
2. Watch what you post on social media
People should refrain from posting pictures of their holidays on social media
"Burglars know that the property where they live is empty. It's a very easy trap that people fall into," Lennox says.
3. Be smart when stashing your valuables
Criminals will know all of the best places to look for your valuables, so hiding your cash under the mattress is certainly not the brightest idea.
To hide your valuables properly when away, Lennox says you need to be creative.
He said: “There are fake cans of food and beans which you can put jewellery and money in
“It looks like a tin of beans, but actually it's like a little piggy bank. I think it's quite useful!"
4. Video doorbells aren’t always helpful
Whilst they give a sense of comfort for homeowners, security systems and video doorbells are not enough to deter thieves.
Lennox said: “The sad thing is that many people have reported that they’ve shown their security footage to the police and still nothing was done."
Thieves will purposefully target areas with low prosecution rates.
5. Watch the heat
People tend to relax their security when it is hot outside. If you leave your house during the warmer weather, make sure that all windows and doors are locked, and take your car keys with you wherever you go.
“They're falling asleep with the doors or windows open because the hot weather makes you sleepy," Lennox says.
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