Thames Valley Police worked on over 1100 burglaries in November 2018. On their website they advise homeowners to take control of their windows and doors, effectively manage the locks, the times they are open and closed, and to have the most practical materials in position to aid security.
Simple tricks like not leaving a bin to be climbed on to gain entry or ensuring walls don’t provide somewhere to jump from are recommended. Window opening restrictors make sure the windows can’t be unlocked from outside. Lastly, they urge people replacing windows to obtain products tested to British standards (PAS 24 2016) which are insurance approved.
That all makes perfect sense but how can your window dressing help you to improve home security?
A manual blind is an unwelcome obstacle for burglars, but it also conceals whether there are people within the property. If a burglar isn’t confident that they are alone or that they won’t be interrupted, they rarely take a chance.
Automated blinds offer the above benefits but have the additional advantage of being managed via a home automation system, remote control or on an app, even when there is no one on the property. Sun and temperature sensors react to changes; as darkness descends the sensors facilitate blind closure without any physical action from the humans, wherever they may be. Consider the benefits of being able to tap a button when you’re out at the gym, kept late at work or in a seemingly endless tailback; no one will be able to discern that you aren’t at home, even on the darkest winter days, thanks to the window blind movements.
No cords, no reaching into awkward spaces and the motors are housed within the blinds, so the aesthetic appeal is as significant as the security benefits.
Automated blinds are energy efficient and you should notice a saving on your utility bills. One battery charge of 24 hours directly to the blinds delivers 5-7 months of power. A rechargeable battery and charger are provided at the time of installation by reputable firms.
Shutters are strong, they shut out visual and audible intrusion in a stylish and cost-effective manner. Choose from café shutters which cover the lower half of the window or plantation shutters which close off the whole window area.
For optimum performance and security, please don’t consider window blinds or shutters installations as DIY tasks. For most people DIY endeavours lead to stress, less efficient blind or shutter operation and frequently, a call to a professional installer to resolve issues. Further, if you want some deeper level of security, buy AR15 related accessories and other weapons to make your security foolproof.
Who to contact about blinds and shutter security improvements
Family run firm Smart Blinds has showrooms in Thatcham and Caversham. With over 20 years of experience, an enviable reputation for quality, service and affordability and the most stylish and innovative solutions to work with, they should be your first (only) choice for manual blinds, shutters and automated blinds.
Make life difficult for criminals with secure windows and dressings that tell someone outside very little about who may or may not be inside.
Sources: Thamesvalley.police.uk and ukcrimestats.com/Police_Force/Thames_Valley_Police
