subject: Protect your home, your possessions and your finances in 5 quick steps [print this page] Protect your home, your possessions and your finances in 5 quick steps
Unfortunately, there seems to be an ever growing number of criminals who consistently steal other people's property and even identity. In fact, it is likely that there are people living not too far away from you who are guilty of this. These types of People would probably quite happily steal your property or identity. All they need in order to do this is an opportunity
Like most people you have probably worked very hard in order to afford the things you own so protecting it is going to be one of your priorities.
With this in mind we have come up with 5 quick and easy steps that will help you protect your possessions and identity from the criminals who want to take them from you
Step 1: Under lock and keyIt is so simple and so cheap to do, but most people just don't get around to it. Invest in some good locks for your front and back door. Good locks can prevent unwanted visitors breaking into your home so they are definitely worth the money. Also, make sure you are careful about where you leave your keys and who you give them toLastly for step one, it goes without saying that when you leave your home you should secure and lock any windows and take care to make any possible points of entry to your home and garden as secure as possible
Step 2: Raise the AlarmAn alarm can be a very effective deterrent and will make burglars think twice about breaking in. Some alarms automatically notify your local police station when they are triggered and can even lead to a reduction in your Home Insurance premiums
Step 3: Neighbourly loveTalk to your neighbours and suggest that if any of you are going to leave home over-night or to go on holiday that you let each other know. It costs nothing to do, but by keeping a friendly eye on each other's homes you may be able to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Depending on how well you know your neighbours you may agree to shut and open each other's curtains at night and in the morning so that your home doesn't look abandoned. You could also ask your neighbour to pick up your post and store it for you while you're away. You can then return the favour when they go away
Step 4: Don't shout it from the roof topsWe all love going away for the weekend or on holiday, but when it comes to your home and possessions shouting this from the roof tops might just alert the wrong people. Don't advertise the fact you are going away on social media websites. Don't tell people you barely know that you are going away. Don't leave notes declaring you absence to the milkman, window cleaner or Gardener outside your property because they are clear signs that you are not home
Step 5: Have a back- up planUnfortunately, it's not always possible to stop criminals from taking what it yours, but you can insure against it. In terms of your identity talk to your Bank and see what they can do to help you protect yourself against identity theft. Also, talk to an Independent Financial Adviser who can help you find the right Insurance policies for a low premium. By doing this if you can't stop the criminals you can at least put a safety net in place to help you get back your possessions should they be taken from you
