While the Singapore Police Force's campaign slogan 'Low crime doesn't mean no crime.' seems as timeless as the national anthem. Its meaning, like a national anthem, shouldn't be lost on us. With the ever-growing number of CCTVs around both HDB and private housing estates, and vehicle dashboard cameras, those among us with criminal intent are increasingly deterred. However, we think it's a good idea to err on the side of caution because technology isn't flawless.
CCTVs and dashboard cameras can't cover every angle or guarantee clear footage. And even if they did, it's a headache retrieving priceless valuables even if the culprit is apprehended. Stolen items are often quickly sold or passed on to someone else. So how can regular Joes and Janes reduce the threat of burglaries and property theft?
1. Lock your main gate and door
Yes, it sounds obvious. But most burglars aren't skilled masters of the night with specialised equipment to break and enter. Quite the opposite, in fact, they're usually opportunists who notice or know you don't lock gate or door. A significant percentage of burglaries and thefts occur because doors weren't locked or property wasn't secured. The obvious solution to this would be to utilise the security features you've installed in your home. Whether it's a digital lock for both your gate and door or a regular mechanical lock--use it!
2. Consider installing a digital lock
If you're still using a mechanical lock, we strongly advise against hiding spare keys somewhere you think they'll never be found. If you need to give access to other people you don't trust a master key with (e.g., children, tenants, etc.) you might want to consider a digital lock. Digital locks can solve the issue of having to leave keys out for someone with one-time passwords, multiple security codes and other nifty features.
Other nifty features like an auto-lock function ensure your door is locked even if you forget to. And some models feature anti-theft functions that alert you via a smartphone app when your door is unlocked or being tampered with.
3. Install grills and lock your windows
This is especially important and useful if you're living in a more mature HDB estate. Simply because that's how older HDB apartments were designed. Many older HDB apartments feature windows that face the common corridor and are considered weak spots because they're often overlooked by homeowners when going out. Installing window-grills go a long way to deterring would-be burglars and can be made to match your home's aesthetic, and affordably too so that you don't create jailhouse vibes.
And suppose you live on the ground or lower levels. In that case, we recommend securing all your windows (i.e., kitchen and bedroom) too. The most straightforward, and cost-effective, precaution you can take is to keep your valuables out of sight and reach from windows and doors.
4. Install a steel gate that enhances privacy
A robust gate gives your home a solid first line of defence against potential burglars. However, in some cases, your belongings and property being visible attract unwanted attention. With valuables visible, more determined and skilled criminals might attempt to break into and enter your home.
If you own precious property (it's all relative), a custom laser-cut steel gate is a worthwhile investment. With fewer welds and made from high-quality steel, your apartment will feel more private and safer. Not sure where to start? We recommend speaking to our team so that you can specify a design that increases your home's privacy while remaining true to your style.
5. Measure, install and maintain your gate, properly
Right fitting your gate to your HDB apartment's entrance will bump up your home's security. And as an added benefit, it'll extend the lifespan of your gate, significantly. Which equates to more savings over time🤑 'How do I maintain my gate properly?' you ask. Here at Liminal, we keep things simple, and as with most hinges and moving parts found in homes, a little squirt of WD-40 every 6
To ensure precise measurements, leave it to the professionals who will sort the nitty-gritty details out so that you have a fuss-free home renovation experience. And come installation day, having a reliable and professional team makes a difference. From the delivery and installation of the gate to teaching you how to properly care for and maintain it to best-in-class after-sales service, it's the little things that we often overlook that count.
Burglar-proof your home with these 5 tips
- Use your locks--it's simple and taken for granted
- Invest in a digital lock
- Secure your windows and keep valuables away from them
- Choose a gate design that enhances privacy
- Hire professionals for home renovations, and make an effort to maintain gates, doors and locks
Keeping our homes safe in Singapore is a lot easier than in other countries and big cities, and it's something we can all be thankful for. But wherever you live, whether Pasir Ris, Geylang or Choa Chu Kang, remember, property theft is often committed by opportunists who spot something easy to take.
