BSIA advises homeowners to install security systems to gear up for increased security breaches during winter

Long hours of darkness during winter make properties more vulnerable

As the days are getting shorter and the cold starts settling in, the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) is reminding homeowners of the importance of ensuring that their homes and possessions are protected this winter.

Past events have proven that the risk of falling victim of crimes such as burglary increases during the cold season, as long hours of darkness make properties more vulnerable. However, simple and cost-effective preventative measures can dramatically reduce the threat of houses being broken into.

"Winter is the busiest time of the year for burglars," says James Kelly, Chief Executive of the British Security Industry Association. "For this reason homeowners should be particularly careful, and may consider improving their home security. Protecting your home and possessions needn't be complicated or expensive and even the simplest of measures can considerably reduce the risk of break-ins. Most burglars are opportunists and will just try doors and gates to see if they are locked. Therefore straightforward actions like making sure that doors and gates are properly locked can defeat them."

"There are plenty of security measures available on the market to help you secure your home, such as locks for windows and doors, bells or monitored intruder alarms, CCTV, property marking systems and/or security lighting. Before choosing which solution is right for you, however, you should consider how the burglar could gain entry to your property, and seek expert advice where necessary. What is imperative, regardless of which method you choose to adopt, is that you should select quality security solutions, provided by a professional company that complies with appropriate standards."

The BSIA website provides details of member companies that comply with relevant British and European Standards.