With the rise of online shopping, deliveries to households have increased with parcel deliveries up by 30%. However, with this increase comes the growing risk of letterbox crime. Whether you’ve been a victim of letterbox burglary before or are looking to prevent it following the latest warning over robot burglars gaining entry through letterboxes and cat-flaps, we’ve got some simple ways you can make your mailbox more secure.
Replace thumb piece locks
Thumb turn locks are often used on uPVC doors but can be especially vulnerable to letterbox crime. Reduce the risk by replacing your locks with key-operated alternatives but remember to remove the key and place it out of sight and out of reach.
Choose a box with a draught excluder
Letterboxes that have a brush inside have a dual purpose. Not only does the brush act as a draught excluder, but it also means people are unable to look into your property. The harder you make it for thieves to ascertain if there’s anything in your property worth stealing, the greater the chances of them looking elsewhere.
Add a mail cage
With pet ownership on the rise, there’s a fear that attacks on delivery people may increase too. If your dog attacks a postal delivery person you may be prosecuted, therefore installing a mail cage may have myriad benefits. Not only does a mail cage keep all your letters away from any pets that like to shred paper or attack the delivery person’s hand, but it will make it more difficult for thieves to tamper with locks or steal keys.
Choose a standalone mailbox
Consider getting rid of your letterbox altogether and instead install a standalone mailbox that sits either on your gatepost or to the side of your front door. Standalone mailboxes provide a secure place for all your posts, whilst also inhibiting thieves from looking into your property and gaining access through the letterbox.
Keep keys out of reach
Many of us hang (or throw) our keys to one side as soon as we come in after a day at work. But we could be unwittingly playing into the hands of criminals. Even if they don’t gain access to your home, criminals are using technology to their advantage and are stealing cars from outside homes without ever stepping foot into the house. To prohibit criminals from stealing your car place keys inside a metal tin away from the front door as soon as you get in – especially at night.