How To Secure Your Home This Christmas
July 30, 2025
Christmas is a time for celebration with whole families getting together, often for the only time all year round. And everybody should try and find some time to wind down, relax, and maybe have a few drinks. After all, we're back to a 9-5 lifestyle once Christmas has passed.
However, it is still wise to take the same precautions you would through the rest of the year, such as ensuring your home is secure from intruders and other dangers. So, here's a look at how to keep your home secure this Christmas.
Keep Valuables and Gifts Out of Sight
Unfortunately, Christmas is an opportunity for some people to try and benefit by breaking into homes and stealing Christmas gifts. Plus, of course, any other valuables in the house at the time can also be targeted.
It's well-known that the vast majority of burglaries are opportunistic, with the perpetrators taking perceived opportunities for personal gain. And one way to limit the appearance of an opportunity is by keeping gifts and other valuables out of sight to passers-by.
This doesn't mean you have to hide everything away, but at least make it less obvious to potential intruders that your property might be worth breaking into. For example, depending on the layout of your home, you can have your Christmas tree and gifts in a corner, out of sight to people outside looking in.
Have Exterior Lighting Installed
Potential intruders prefer darkened places in and around your property where they are less visible to yourself or your neighbours. Dark areas will help give them cover where they can wait and hide for the right time to move in. Thus, making sure your property is well-lit will make your home a less attractive target to potential thieves.
If you don't want to have exterior lights on permanently, then you can make them motion-triggered so they turn on whenever something in range moves. This approach can be more effective because it can give the impression that somebody is home and awake. You can also use motion sensing technology in other ways to protect your home, such as CCTV cameras that start recording once triggered.
And don't forget that installing exterior lighting at Christmas is a great opportunity to install bright Christmas decorations that will help brighten up your home and the neighbourhood. With a little imagination, you can find a great-looking way to illuminate your home externally throughout the year.
Update Your Locks
Even the toughest of locks will lose their strength over the years, potentially creating a weak spot that leaves your home vulnerable. As such, it's a good idea to examine your locks to be sure they're in good working order and just as strong as they always have been. Of course, if a lock is past its best, it's a good idea to replace it with a new one.
Not only have new locks not undergone wear and tear yet, but they are also made using the latest technology. This technology helps ensure that your locks can't be physically broken, while it's also harder for them to be picked.
Getting a new lock is also a good idea if you have had lodgers or other people move out recently. The fewer people who have access to keys to your home, the more secure your home is. You should also be careful about leaving any spares lying around and keep them in a secure location instead.
Check Your Doors
No lock can keep an intruder out if they can just break down the doors instead. And doors can become weakened over time, potentially making it easier for somebody to force their way in. Old doors are also less likely to have features like multiple locking points that help make the door stronger still.
Some burglars will use sledgehammers and similar tools to force their way in. They will be well aware that the noise will attract attention, but they'd hope to be in and out before the authorities can arrive. The stronger the door, the longer it will take for intruders to break in, helping to keep your property safe.
While checking your doors, it's also a good idea to check your frames. After all, the strongest of doors can easily be bypassed if the frame holding them is weakened.
Check Your Windows
Don't forget that Windows also make potential entry points so they too should be strong and secure, including the frames. If you can, make sure you keep them locked, especially at night to prevent intruders from gaining entry. And remember that it only takes a small space for somebody to gain access, so make sure every window of your home is secure.
And remember that new widows are not only a safety issue. Depending on how old your existing windows are, they might be energy inefficient, especially if they are single-glazed. The energy savings will often repay the investment many times over, even before you consider the additional security new windows will offer.
You can also use the occasion to decorate your windows in a snowy, Christmas theme, making it harder for people to look inside. With gifts and other valuables less visible, potential thieves are less likely to target your home.
Get a Dog
Dogs truly are man's best friends and make wonderful companions, often becoming a close family member. And not only are they fun to have around, but they can also serve practical purposes, such as helping to keep intruders out. Even if you choose a small dog that won't intimidate potential thieves, it can still be an effective sentry that alerts you to somebody trying to break in. All it takes in many cases, is to have a sign letting people know you have a dog, and potential burglars will look elsewhere instead.
However, it's important to remember that a dog really is for life and not just for Christmas. They do require a commitment, including a good diet, training, plenty of exercise and lots of love. But take care of your four-legged friend and they will love you in return and strive to ensure your whole family is safe.
Install CCTV
CCTV makes for an effective deterrent, helping prevent potential intruders from setting foot on your property. After all, CCTV makes it much more likely they will be recognized and caught, which everybody would rather avoid. Should somebody not be perturbed by CCTV, the technology will at least make justice more likely and you might even get your valuables back.
Modern CCTV systems can also include triggers that will notify you if they notice something. And apps will even let you see CCTV images on your smartphone, helping you take any action necessary. This might mean calling the authorities or maybe calling the person on camera if you know them.
Another security system you can install is alarms, which also help make an effective deterrent. And if an intruder does trip an alarm, they know to get away from the area as quickly as possible to avoid getting caught.
When having CCTV or alarms fitted, it's a good idea to ensure they're clearly visible so people know to keep clear of your property and choose another target instead.
Have a Safe Room Installed
If you have the budget, then having a safe room installed will help keep everybody inside safe from intruders. Safe rooms are typically very difficult to break into, protecting people inside until the authorities can arrive. Safe rooms can also be useful for other emergencies, such as protection from tornadoes and hurricanes.
It's also a good idea to keep your safe room reasonably well-stocked at all times because you never know when you might need it. Make sure to store some drinking water and tinned food, bedding, and maybe some books or other entertainment.
Summary
Above are just a few of the ways you can help keep your home secure this Christmas. In many cases, some simple vigilance will make a big difference, and it's often not necessary to spend a penny to make your home safer.
However, it's still a good idea to check your locks and fittings to ensure everything is secure and consider making replacements where necessary. Having new lighting installed and being discreet about gifts and other valuables will also help make your home a target. Regardless, take the appropriate precautions and your home will be a safe and cosy place this Christmas.
If you live in Wimbledon’s SW19, you know the vibe - gorgeous tree-lined streets, the buzz of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, and the charm of the Village or Common just a short walk away. But between the stunning Victorian houses, sleek modern flats, and lively shops on the high street, there’s a catch: lockouts after a late night cheering at the All England Club or the odd break-in, in quieter spots can throw a wrench in your day. Even thing like moving homes or updating your home insurance can come with challenges. That’s when you need a local locksmith you can count on to sort things out fast. At SMS Locksmiths, we're proud to serve Wimbledon and the SW19 area (including Southfields, Merton Park, and Colliers Wood) with 24/7 emergency and planned services. Our DBS-checked, fully insured technicians arrive within 30 minutes, using non-destructive methods and transparent pricing - no hidden fees or call-out charges. Whether you're a homeowner securing your Edwardian semi-detached or a business owner in the Wimbledon Broadway retail hub, we're here to keep you safe. In this guide, we'll cover the top 5 locksmith services we provide to SW19 residents, tailored to local needs like upgrading heritage locks or handling post-match rush lockouts. Read on for practical tips, and remember: prevention is key to peace of mind. 1. Emergency Lock Opening: Back Inside in Minutes, No Damage to basic locks Nothing disrupts a Wimbledon evening stroll like realising you're locked out - keys forgotten after a coffee at Gail's or a tennis viewing party. Our lock opening service gets you back in fast using advanced pick-and-decode tools, bypassing tools and years of skill and experience, avoiding costly door damage. • Why Wimbledon residents love it: SW19's mix of old sash windows and modern uPVC doors means quick, non-destructive entry is essential. We handle everything from front doors to sheds and post boxes without a trace. • Real-life example: A local family in Southfields called us at 10 PM after misplacing keys during a dog walk on the Common. We arrived in 25 minutes, opened the lock in under 10, and advised on a spare key safe. • Pro tip: Always keep a copy of your keys with a family member or a person you trust, but call us immediately for lockouts - DIY attempts often lead to bigger bills. No matter the time, our 24/7 team ensures you're not stranded. Customer review: "SMS saved our night - professional and stress-free!" – Wimbledon Village resident (5 stars on Trustpilot). 2. Lock Changing: Fresh Security for New Starts in SW19 Moving into a charming Wimbledon flat or after losing keys? A lock change is your first line of defence against unknown access. We replace old locks with high-quality, British Standard (BS3621) compliant options that meet insurance requirements. • Tailored for Wimbledon: Many SW19 homes have outdated rim locks on period properties; we swap them for secure euro cylinders or deadbolts that fit seamlessly. • The process: On-site assessment (free quote), removal of old locks, installation (under 45 minutes), and a full test. Costs start from £110, with a 1-year warranty. • Local insight: With rising lettings in Merton Park, tenants often request changes post-move—we've helped dozens secure their new homes and flats without voiding deposits. Don't risk spare keys circulating; a quick change brings instant security. Book via our site for same-day service. 3. Lock Upgrades: Boost Protection Against Wimbledon Burglary Trends SW19 saw a spike in bike thefts and shed break-ins last year, per Merton Council reports. Our lock upgrades modernise your setup with anti-snap, anti-drill cylinders and multi-point systems, deterring thieves in high-traffic areas like Haydons Road. • SW19-specific benefits: Upgrade Victorian night latches to snap-resistant models or add 5 lever British standard deadlocks for Colliers Wood flats – we supply multiple brands for you to choose from on site. • Why upgrade now?: Standard locks fail 70% of tested break-ins; our BS-approved options slash that risk and keep premiums low. • Quick win: A Wimbledon Broadway shop owner upgraded their rear door after a near-miss; no incidents since, and they saved on insurance. We offer free security audits to spot weak points - perfect for families near the tennis grounds during tournament season. 4. New Lock Installations: Seamless Fits for Home or Business Renovating your Wimbledon townhouse or fitting out a new office near Plough Lane? Our lock installation service handles everything from single deadbolts to full master key systems for multi-unit properties. • Local expertise: We specialise in SW19's diverse builds -reinforced locks for ground-floor flats or heavy-duty ones for garage conversions in quiet Merton Park cul-de-sacs. • Step-by-step: Site visit for measurements, custom sourcing (e.g., thumb-turn cylinders for easy exit), professional fitting, and handover with keys and instructions. Most jobs completed in the first visit. • Business perk: For Wimbledon shops and cafes, we install mechanical digital access control for staff shifts, reducing downtime. Invest in lasting quality - our installations come with lifetime advice and no-fuss guarantees. 5. After-Burglary Services: Restore and Reinforce in SW19 A break-in is every homeowner's nightmare, and Wimbledon's green spaces can attract opportunists. Our after-burglary response includes immediate boarding-up, full lock replacements, and forensic-safe repairs to get you secure overnight. • Comprehensive support: We coordinate with police (providing reference numbers for claims), replace damaged frames, board up broken doors and windows to restore security providing you with peace of mind and giving you time to change doors. • Wimbledon focus: In areas like Southfields, where gardens back onto commons, we add perimeter advice like gravel paths for noise alerts. • From the frontlines: After a recent Merton burglary wave, we helped a family in SW19 board up, reinstall high-security locks, and claim via photos - back to normal in 24 hours. Act fast: Delaying repairs invites further risk. We're your second call after the police post-incident, with compassionate, efficient service. Why Choose SMS Locksmiths for Your Wimbledon SW19 Needs? As a family-run business with over a decade in South West London, we know SW19 inside out - from the rush of match days to the serenity of the Common. Our services aren't just fixes; they're tailored solutions with free quotes, 30-minute responses, and eco-friendly practices (we recycle old locks!). Plus, we're fully insured and DBS-vetted for your peace of mind. Ready to secure your Wimbledon home or business? Visit smslocksmith.co.uk to book online or request a free security check. For emergencies, we're just a click away - no postcode too far in SW19! Stay safe, Wimbledon - SMS Locksmiths has your back. #WimbledonLocksmith #SW19Security #EmergencyLocksmith #LockChangeWimbledon #MertonLocksmith ________________________________________ FAQs for SW19 Residents: Q: How quickly can you arrive in Wimbledon? A: Typically 20-30 minutes, 24/7 - no exceptions for rush hour on the A3! Q: Are your services insured for SW19 properties? A: Yes, all work is given a 1 year warranty and compliant with UK standards. Q: What's the cost for a basic lock change in Wimbledon? A: From £110, with no surprises - get a quote today. For more security tips, check our blog or follow us on social for Wimbledon updates!
Below is a more detailed breakdown of each service, which you can place under “Locksmith services we provide in Hounslow”: Lock Changes & Upgrades
 If you’ve just moved into a new home or want to increase your security, we can replace your locks with better, more secure models. Whether it’s euro cylinders, mortice locks, deadbolts or master key systems, we can recommend and install insurance-grade products. Lock Repair & Adjustment Locks wear out over time - maybe the key sticks or you force it to turn. We diagnose whether parts can be repaired (springs, levers, cylinders) or whether it requires replacement. We can also realign misaligned mechanisms so things work smoothly again. Emergency Lockout / Non-Destructive Entry Locked out at an inconvenient hour? We specialize in non-destructive entry, meaning we’ll open your door without breaking it. We carry a full set of specialised tools, from lock picks to tensioners, to gain entry safely and professionally. Burglary & Forced Entry Repair If your property has been broken into, we can repair or replace damaged locks, door frames, or hinges. We can also strengthen weak points and offer recommendations to prevent future incidents (e.g. reinforced strike plates, heavy-duty cylinders). Door & Frame Carpentry / Refurbishment Sometimes the door frame, jamb or door edge is also damaged or poorly aligned. We can carry out carpentry, reinforce the frame, repair door edges, or adjust the door fitting so your locks work properly. UPVC / Multi-Point Door & Window Mechanisms UPVC doors and windows often have multipoint locking systems that require delicate handling. We service, repair, or replace gearboxes, locking rods, handles, and cylinders. We can also realign or replace stuck mechanisms so your windows and doors seal properly. Commercial & Business Services For offices, shops, and commercial premises, we offer: Master key systems Restricted key zones Keyholding & emergency access Panic bars, exit devices, and high-security door furniture Mechanical Digital keypad / access control installations Lock re-keying when staff changeover occurs Area Coverage & Availability We cover the TW3 area and nearby zones in Hounslow, including Feltham, Heston, Cranford, and West Drayton. Wherever you are in Hounslow, we strive to reach you fast. We operate 24/7, every day. Even during weekends and bank holidays, we remain on call.
