Don’t Let Thieves Steal Your Christmas

During the festive season our homes become filled with gifts, increasing the allure for potential burglaries. Statistics indicate a 25% rise in burglaries during December, attributed to the abundance of valuable items and often unoccupied properties. Concurrently, there is a significant increase in email scams, with criminals impersonating well-known delivery companies.

To combat these risks, we offer the following advice:

1. Key Security: Keep your keys hidden and away from doors or windows, as burglars often scout through windows before breaking in. Use a key safe for better security and avoid leaving spare keys outside.
2. Simulating Occupancy: Make your house appear occupied using timer switches for lights and leaving a radio on.
3. Email and Website Caution: Be vigilant of emails and websites resembling legitimate companies but with slight variations in email addresses. Always access online accounts directly, avoiding links from emails.
4. Protecting Your Vehicle: Store car keys in RFID bags to prevent theft through relay devices.

Post-Christmas Security Measures

The post-holiday period is crucial for home security, as new and expensive items become prime targets for burglars. We therefore recommend you consider the following:

• Disposal of Packaging: Discreetly dispose of packaging of new items. Break down boxes and place them inside rubbish bags and wheelie bins.
• Keeping Boxes for Electronics: Retain boxes for electronics for future storage or moving purposes.
• Update your Insurance cover: It’s vital to remember the importance of updating your insurance policies with any new valuable items acquired during the festive season. Ensuring these items are included in your insurance schedule can provide peace of mind and protection against potential losses due to theft or damage. Please contact your usual Lycetts contact to make changes to your policy. 

Reporting Incidents

In the unfortunate event of a burglary, promptly report the incident to the police as your insurer will require the Police Crime Reference Number when validating your claim. Reporting also helps build a comprehensive picture of crime trends, which is crucial for effective policing. Use online reporting for convenience, and in emergencies, dial 999.

To report a claim, please contact Lycetts either by emailing ukclaims@lycetts.co.uk or by calling our claims team at 0191 232 1151. Alternatively, you may initially discuss with your regular contact at Lycetts. Upon reporting, you will receive a confirmation from our claims team, which will include a claims reference number, the contact information of your assigned claims handler and an outline of the subsequent steps. For assistance outside of office hours, please refer to your policy documents.

By taking these precautions and ensuring your insurance is up-to-date, you can significantly enhance the safety of your home and enjoy a secure and merry Christmas season.

Source – Blackstone Consultancy