An ex-police detective has issued a stark warning to homeowners about the increased risk of burglary during the summer months, highlighting that simple oversights like leaving windows open or tools in the garden can make properties easy targets.
Summer Brings a Rise in Burglary Reports
Mark Cananur, a former detective known from Channel 4's Hunted, told BBC's Morning Live that burglary reports “tend to rise during the summer months.” He explained that as the weather improves, people spend more time outside, leaving their homes vacant for longer periods. This lifestyle change makes properties more vulnerable to criminals seeking quick and silent entry.
Key Red Flags: Open Windows and Garden Tools
Cananur identified two major red flags that homeowners often overlook. The first is leaving windows open while away from home. He advised: “Think about your windows. Are they all secured when you're out? Do you have window locks, and if so, lock them and take the key out.” The second is leaving tools or equipment in the garden, such as ladders or hammers, which criminals can use to gain access. “Leaving tools around your garden is also a red flag, because those tools could be used to gain access to your property,” he said. He urged homeowners to lock such items in sheds or indoors, out of sight.
Think Like a Thief to Improve Security
The ex-detective encouraged people to adopt a thief’s mindset when assessing their home security. He noted that most burglars attempt entry through the front door, so it is critical to ensure it is locked, ideally with a double lock. He also recommended securing fences and gates, removing tempting items from plain view, and investing in lighting and CCTV to deter criminals who operate under cover of darkness.
Social Media Caution for Holidaymakers
Cananur also warned against advertising holidays on social media. “Always have that mindset that if you're going on holiday, you wouldn't write it on the side of your house that you're away for two weeks, so don't have the same mindset and advertise on social media that you're away,” he said. He advised posting photos and updates only after returning home to avoid alerting potential burglars.
Impact Beyond Financial Loss
The warning comes as part of broader advice from Victim Support, which notes that the impact of burglary extends beyond financial loss, often affecting victims' mental health and sense of security. Homeowners are urged to take proactive steps to reduce risks during the summer months.
