10 top tips for preventing a burglary

1. Assess the risks

Burglars target properties that they can enter and leave without being spotted. Careful risk assessment is key to preventing a break-in at home. Your home needs to be protected – and it should look like there is always someone there.

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2. Keep security in mind

Always lock your windows and doors – even if you’re only popping out for a little while. Do not leave the key under your doormat, under a plant pot or in your letterbox. If you’re going to be away for a while, ask the mail company to hold your post for you.

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3. Leave a light on

Outdoor lighting with motion sensors deters intruders. Fit a timer to your indoor lamps and set them to come on at staggered times.

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4. Secure the weak entry points

Burglars look for the easiest way to enter a house without being seen. Take care to secure all the potential points of access, which might include a back door, basement door, garage or basement window.

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5. Shut and lock windows

Leaving a window open or a door unlocked is like sending a written invitation to a burglar. And remember that an ajar window is as good as an open window! You can bet that a burglar could be inside your home within 30 seconds if you make life that easy for them.

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6. Secure your balcony or patio door

A glazed balcony or patio door is a prime access point for a burglar. Most older models can easily be lifted out of the frame. Install an additional security mechanism on the inside – between the fixed and moving parts of the door.

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7. Install an alarm system

On average, there’s a burglary every eight minutes in Switzerland. By installing a decent alarm system, you can reduce the risk of burglary by a factor of five.

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8. Connect your alarm system to Certas

Alarm systems are most effective when they’re connected to large and reputable alarm receiving centres like the ones operated by Certas. Alarm notifications are processed here 24/7, 365 days a year.

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9. Deter burglars

You can deter burglars by making it obvious that your home is under surveillance around the clock. Certas provides stickers that do this job for you as soon as your alarm system is connected.

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10. Facilitate action

As an added security measure, you can hire a private security company to attend your home when an alarm is triggered. In most cantons of Switzerland, the police will only take action once an alarm has been verified. The security company you hire to take action will also be another key holder.