It happened in our old house, it was our first home, a small terraced house, with a yard. I was pregnant at the time. It was the middle of the night, my hubby was sound asleep snoring next to me, and I was wide awake unable to get comfortable; then I heard it.  I could hear noise, very faint, but it didn't sound right. So I go up crept to the window in the bedroom overlooking the yard. It was there I spotted two men climbing over our back gate. For a couple of minutes, I watched in stunned silence as they crept up to the back door and when I saw some kind of object pulled out, I then banged on the window and shouted - they ran, hubby jumped up out of bed (wondering what the hell was going on).  It's safe to say I didn't sleep at all that night, and probably not for a few nights after. 

It scared the bejeebers out of me.  You want your home to feel safe; like I always tell my kids 'home is the safest place in the world' and so it should be.  But what steps can you do to help make your home feel safer and put off burglars from breaking in. Some of these steps can also help keep down the cost of your house insurance.

Lock all windows and doors.

If you are going out for a long period of time, or on holiday, then always check the windows and doors of your home to make sure they shut and lock properly and that they are secure.

Secure the garden

Make sure all your valuables are locked away securely: bikes, and tools – make sure the ladder is put away, so a bugler cannot use it to his advantage.  And, make sure the gate is shut and locked.

Motion detector lights

Install motion detector lights to deter the burglars. Above the garage, on the shed, in the back garden etc. o

Install a monitored home security system.

With today's technology, you can install a home system that allows you to remotely access your home security via your phone. You can even use your device to lock/unlock doors or check on pets via security cameras. Plus, your insurance provider may discount your home insurance premium with one installed.

Pet Dogs

We see our dogs as part of the family and we love them very dearly, but they also offer that extra bit of security - having dogs will discourage potential burglars.