You may think that leaving your key in the door at night improves your safety by ensuring a quick exit in the event of an emergency. It can actually increase your security risk, however, by making your property an easier target for burglars.
Gaining Access
Keys in doors can be fished out via your letterbox or a window could be broken to get to them. Then it’s just a case of a quick turn and strangers can have access to your home or grab the keys to your car. A better idea is to always keep keys out of the lock and out of sight.
You might also want to consider a security bar, door viewer or CCTV installation Swindon or wherever you happen to live, helped by companies providing CCTV installation Swindon. Camera door bells can also be useful, acting as a deterrent, a security barrier and an evidence provider should something untoward happen.
Reducing Risk
Looking after your keys and exits and entrances to your property can reduce the risk of crime, whether that’s lowering the chance of a break-in or reducing vehicle theft.
Key fishing is a genuine threat, as criminals regularly use a variety of tools such as metal coat hangers and other items to hook them through letterboxes. It is also worth remembering that leaving your keys in a door lock can invalidate your home insurance, leaving you with an invalid claim if items are taken or damage is caused.