It can be easy to forget the simple things when you're in shock from a home break-in. Take the following steps to get your home back to normal and prevent further burglaries in the future.
Immediately following the break-in
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Leave the house
If you've come home to find a burgled house, you could still be in danger. The thief could still be inside, armed and potentially dangerous. Leave your home, head to a neighbour's house and call the police on 999, using their phone or your mobile.
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Don't use the home phone
Never use your home phone to call the police. The thief could have used your phone to make a call, or left prints on the receiver along with a traceable redial number.
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Don't touch anything
Try not to move or touch anything until the police arrive. You never know what items the burglar has touched, leaving incriminating fingerprints.
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List missing items
Once the police have secured your property, make a list of missing items. If you have receipts, all the better. You'll need this information to claim back on insurance afterwards.
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Secure your home
Board up broken windows and doors so your home is safe and secure. If this task proves difficult, call a professional glazier.
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Get expert help
If your furniture (including beds and sofas) has been damaged, a professional furniture repair person can in many cases restore them to their original condition.
Prevent future break-ins
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Fortify your house
Many thieves break into the same home a second time as it's likely stolen items will be replaced. Fit new locks and doors. Reinforce the point of forced entry to make it more difficult for the thief to break in again. Call in a locksmith to ensure that your home is fully secured.
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Get a security alarm
Ensure your home is fitted with a reliable security alarm. Security lights are also a good idea as they switch on at preset times or when they detect movement.
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Engrave your valuables
Simple measures such as engraving your details on valuable possessions give you a greater chance of recovery if they're stolen.
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