Insurance experts have urged anyone planning to head out over the upcoming bank holiday weekend marking the Coronation of King Charles to take some extra steps to keep their homes safe.
LV = General Insurance (LV= GI) issued the warning after its data revealed that claims for home thefts increased by 36% during the Queen's Platinum Jubilee weekend last year, compared with the same period in 2021. With many planning outings or getaways over the three-day weekend between May 6 and May 8, it's thought that opportunistic thieves may be particularly on the lookout to take advantage of houses being empty.
Martin Milliner, claims director at LV= GI, said: "Whether you're heading to a street party or even jetting off on vacation, it's important to ensure that you’re not leaving your home as a target to potential burglaries. It will be a busy weekend for many, so remember to double check the windows are locked and whether you're expecting any delayed deliveries, as these are the tell-tell signs that the property is unoccupied."
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The insurer suggests avoiding discussing any of your weekend plans too publicly, for example on social media, as you never know who could be taking note. Additionally, if you're heading out to a street party for the Coronation, make sure you double check your locks and don't leave your windows open - thieves will likely be on the lookout for easy access into homes.
If you're going to be away for the long weekend, LV= suggests asking a friend or family member who lives locally to park their car on your driveway to make it appear as though there is someone at home. And if you are expecting a parcel delivery, try to get it postponed or delivered to a neighbour instead - any package left in a 'safe space' outside could be stolen, as well indicating to a thief that the house is empty.
You may wish to consider investing in anti-snap locks, which make it more difficult for intruders to force their way in, or five-lever mortice deadlocks - these are embedded into the actual body of a door, making them harder to prise open. Motion sensor-activated lights can also help to deter potential thieves, but it's worth making sure this is fitted high up and out of reach so it can't be tampered with.
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