ADT Security experts reveal 5 ways to keep homes safe when the clocks go back

It’s an adjustment made every year when the clocks go back, the days become shorter and the dark nights last longer. But as a nation, is extra measures taken to keep homes secure during the winter months?

2022 burglary report

Glenn Amato, Managing Director at ADT UK&I Subscriber, comments: “Our 2022 burglary report found that most burglaries occur at night, more precisely 32% in the evening (6 pm-12 pm) and 26% at night (12 am-6 am). Opportunistic thieves prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. So, it’s no surprise that the number of burglaries increases when the clocks go back and the nights get longer.”

He adds, “On average, a burglary in England and Wales costs £2,856 and our report found that the cost of stolen items in a burglary amounts to more than £1,000 in 44% of incidents. Your home is where you feel most secure, yet only one in five of us takes extra security measures when the dark nights draw in. By taking these extra security steps when the clocks go back this year, we can help to reduce the number of burglaries.”

Top 5 tips

Experts at ADT reveal their top 5 tips to make your home more secure when the clocks go back:

• Empty homes: Residents should make it look like someone is home. Empty homes are more likely to be targeted by thieves, so it’s a good idea to make homes look like it’s occupied while out. By turning on and off the lights or TV, residents can trick opportunistic robbers into thinking someone is home at all times. They can also control their home while away using a smartphone thanks to smart plugs. With ADT Smart Home, residents can take it one step further and connect smart plugs to numerous smart cameras at home, so once movement is detected the lights automatically switch on.
• Who is at door: Residents should see who’s at the door even when one is not at home. A smart video doorbell allows them to see, hear and speak to visitors. In addition to letting the delivery person know where to leave a package while gone, they let the dweller know who is at the door, even if they don’t ring the doorbell. The ability to receive notifications on a phone when motion is detected allows residents to check on what's going on outside the front door.
• Locking sheds and outbuildings: Residents should lock sheds and An outdoor building is often an easy target, so it is advised to protect it with secure windows and strong locks. It is also worth investing in outdoor lighting, as the light can blow the cover of darkness for a would-be thief. The most effective option is motion-activated security lights that can be programmed to the needs and wants.
• Alarms: Residents should get an alarm installed. The box on the front of a house will act as a visible deterrent. ADT’s Burglar Alarm Package has touchscreen control, clever ADT Smart Services connectivity and a deterrent siren. This user-friendly alarm system provides maximum peace of mind. An alarm is also professionally monitored 24/7, so a dweller, their keyholders, or even the police are informed if an alarm is triggered. It is also advised that one set the alarm for when one is away or even sleeping upstairs.
• Locking windows and doors: Residents should lock windows and doors. It takes no more than two minutes to lock windows and doors before going out or before going to bed. This is a precautionary measure, but heading into the winter months when it gets darker much earlier, it is important to ensure that the windows and doors are locked. Also, residents should check their homes to ensure all locks are in good working order. This will deter any opportunists looking for a quick win.