This topic feels particularly relevant right now, considering the unusually high number of reported burglaries in our area. We would therefore like to share some tips and advice that may help reduce the risk of property-related crimes.
Owning your own home or a holiday property is a dream for many, but it also comes with the responsibility of protecting the property from various risks. Burglary, vandalism, fire, and water damage are just a few of the threats that can cause significant problems and expenses.
Holiday properties, which often remain unmonitored for extended periods, are especially vulnerable. Below we share important information, based on Finnish conditions and statistics, to help you better secure your property.
Burglaries and vandalism often occur when properties are left unmonitored, and for holiday homes, the risk is especially high during the off-season.
According to crime statistics in Finland, many residential burglaries also take place during the day, when residents are at work, or during holiday periods when homes are vacant. Criminals prefer these times because the risk of being caught is lower. Weekends and public holidays, when many people leave their homes, also increase the risk. Vandalism occurs more often when a property appears abandoned.
Ask neighbors to keep an eye on your property or visit your holiday home regularly. Another solution is to install automatic lights that turn on and off at varying times, creating the illusion of occupancy. Regularly emptying the mailbox also helps make the property less attractive to unwanted visitors.
Most burglaries occur through doors and windows. Installing secure locks and ensuring that both doors and windows are properly secured is a simple and cost-effective way to improve security.
Valuables visible through windows may attract criminals. Store jewelry, small electronics, and other valuables in a safe place, preferably out of sight from windows.
An effective alarm system deters potential burglars, especially if it is directly connected to a security company's monitoring center, allowing a guard to be dispatched to the property if an alarm is triggered.
Having an alarm system significantly reduces the risk of burglary, especially if it is clearly visible that the property is alarmed and monitored.
Many insurance companies also offer discounts on certain types of insurance if a proper alarm system is installed and connected to a monitoring center.
Additionally, installation work carried out by a licensed security company may be eligible for tax deductions.
Cameras act as a deterrent and help identify suspects in the event of a criminal investigation.
Through modern surveillance systems, property owners can easily monitor their properties around the clock, for example via apps on mobile phones and tablets.
Regular security patrols, especially when the property is unoccupied, can reduce the risk of burglary and vandalism.
Patrolling on a varying schedule creates unpredictable activity that deters criminals from targeting the property.
If you return home and discover that a burglary or act of vandalism has occurred, follow these steps:
An effective alarm system can also include fire and smoke detectors. When connected to a monitoring center, the property owner, security personnel, or emergency services can be alerted quickly. Rapid response is essential to minimize fire damage.
Water damage can develop slowly but lead to significant costs and health issues. Water detectors can be installed in basements, kitchens, and other vulnerable areas. In the event of an alarm, the property owner or security personnel can promptly assess the situation and take appropriate action.
Regular inspections of the property's electrical and plumbing systems reduce the risk of fires and water leaks. It is always recommended to hire professionals for repair work.
Connecting your alarm system to a monitoring center offers several advantages:
Investing in a connected alarm system and security services is a preventive measure that protects your home or holiday property from both crime and accidents. With proper preventive actions and professional support, you can avoid unnecessary worries.
MTP Suupohja Oy offers several solutions to help you reduce these risks through both technical and physical security services.
We have seen that people have become increasingly proactive in preventing risks, as evidenced by the growing number of alarm systems installed in private homes and holiday properties in recent years.
You can find more information about all the services offered by MTP Suupohja on our website.
MTP Suupohja Oy MTP Syd Ab is a private security company in Ostrobothnia, Finland. We are authorized to pursue security activities throughout Finland. Our head office is in Kristinestad, but our area of operations covers even the surrounding municipalities.
We want to ensure high-quality security services for you. As a result, professional expertise and customer service are our personnel’s driving factors.
We’re at your service around the clock in order to guarantee your safety.
