Burglary Prevention Advice for Ealing Residents

Following a recent increase in reported burglaries across the Borough of Ealing, I wanted to share some helpful tips and advice to help ensure your property and belongings remain secure.

General Crime Prevention Advice

To reduce the risk of burglary:

Securing Doors and Windows

Lock up consistently

Always double-lock your doors and secure your windows, even if you are only leaving home for a short period or are inside the property. Ensure any broken locks or handles are repaired promptly and, where possible, replaced with BS Kitemark-approved products.

Reinforce your doors

Fit robust deadbolts, reinforce door frames, and install a heavy-duty security bar or rod on sliding patio doors to prevent them from being forced open.

Protect against letterbox fishing

Keep house and vehicle keys well away from the front door. Criminals can use tools passed through a letterbox to retrieve keys or operate door handles from the inside.

Managing the Exterior and Lighting

Install motion-activated lighting

Position sensor-activated lights around entrances, pathways, side gates, and any dark areas surrounding your property.

Remove hiding places

Regularly trim hedges, shrubs, and overgrown trees near doors, windows, and pathways to reduce opportunities for offenders to conceal themselves.

Secure tools and ladders

Lock away garden tools, ladders, and heavy equipment in a secure shed or garage. These items can be used by criminals to gain access to your property.

Creating the Appearance of Occupancy

Use timers and smart technology

Utilise timer switches or smart plugs to control lights, radios, or televisions, creating the impression that someone is at home while you are away.

Be mindful of social media

Avoid posting live updates, location check-ins, or holiday photographs until you have returned home, as this can signal that your property is unoccupied.

Display visible deterrents

Prominently displayed security cameras, burglar alarms, warning signs, and Neighbourhood Watch stickers can significantly reduce the likelihood of your property being targeted.

If You Are Away for an Extended Period

If you are planning to be away from home for an extended period, ask a trusted family member, friend, or neighbour to:

By taking these simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of burglary and help keep your home, possessions, and community safe