Tips for elderly to keep their home secure

Many elderly people live at home alone, so it’s important they are as safe as possible and feel secure in their surroundings.

We’ve put together some handy tips you can follow or pass on to an elderly loved-one, to make the home as secure as possible from potential thieves.

Many of our service users live alone and our carers share these tips with them and their families. Carers are also asked to raise any issues or concerns with us or relatives if needs be.

Lock doors and windows

An unlocked door or window is a burglar’s dream as they’re relatively easy to slip in and out of. It also allows them access to a home without making any noise or drawing attention to themselves.

You should make sure all windows and doors are locked before going to bed at night or going out in the day.

You can fit a letter box cage to deter thieves further as this will restrict them from tampering with locks by putting their hands through the letter box.

Install visible security devices

Install a burglar alarm to the outside of your house so that it is visible and deters intruders. You can also set up outdoor lighting, which is motion censored and will come on if there is movement outside.

Lock valuables away

It’s extremely important to keep any valuables such as jewellery, money or expensive pieces of technology out of view of windows. Also make sure house and car keys are locked away.

Secure garden sheds and tools

You might not think it, but garden sheds are very inviting to thieves. They often contain lots of expensive tools and equipment. Fit good quality bolts and padlocks to the doors and windows. Motion activated alarms can also be fitted to sheds, greenhouses, conservatories and garages.

Mark possessions

You can mark your treasured or expensive possessions with your postcode or house number, which will deter thieves. Any valuables can be registered with www.immobilise.com.