Safety first: What to do if you’ve had a break in

It is very distressing to discover that you’ve been the victim of a burglary. Coming home to find your home has been broken into, in disarray and items stolen can be a shocking and frightening experience. However, it’s essential that you act swiftly, try to keep calm and follow the following advice as recommended by the police.

1. Call 999.

If your front door or windows are open or have been broken into do not go into your house as there is a danger that the burglars may still be inside. Call the police from your mobile on the street or find your nearest public phone. Then wait in a safe place for the police to arrive.

2. Don't tidy up.

If you have to enter your property prior to the police arriving, don’t touch anything.  The natural reaction is to start tidying up, especially if the place has been ransacked or vandalized but this could destroy vital evidence. The police need to evaluate the scene and will dust for finger and footprints. There may be evidence that the police can use to catch whoever broke into your house – and increase the chances of getting your treasured possessions back. 

3. Secure your home.

Once the police have checked your home for evidence, they will give you advice on securing your home. If doors and windows have been smashed open you will need to call an emergency locksmith or glazier to secure them. Even if the door was not forced, it’s worth changing the locks. Some insurance companies offer a 24-hour call out service and you may be able to be reimbursed for the cost of this work as part of your claim. If you rent your property, call your landlord and let them know what has happened and arrange any necessary repairs.

4. Cancel your bank cards.

If any credit cards, bankcards or cheque books have been stolen or drawers containing related correspondence have been opened, call your bank or building society immediately to cancel them. If you’re in any doubt that your banking security has been compromised cancel them all anyway for peace of mind. If you’re on a pension or claim benefits, you’ll also need to contact the pension or benefits agency if your pension or benefits book are missing. If your passport is missing, you must contact the Home Office's Identity and Passport Service and report stolen driving licences to the DVLA.

5. Call your insurance company.

The police will have given you a case report number which you’ll need to give to your insurance company. Check your policy documents to see if your contents insurance covers your furniture, electrical goods, and other valuables that have been stolen or damaged. Most insurance companies have a 24-hour emergency helpline and you will need to call them to inform them of the incident and register a claim. Your insurance company will request a full police report with details of items stolen.

6.  Get support.

Being the victim of a burglary can be very distressing. If you would like to talk to someone, the police offer a follow -up support service. They can arrange for a member of the nationwide Victim Support team or a community police officer to visit you at home.

7. Preventative measures.

There is much that homeowners can do to protect their homes from thieves. Investing in better bolt down window locks, secure double locked doors and ensuring that garden gates and sheds are also secure will make your property less attractive to burglars. If you were thinking of buying a pet, dogs make great crime deterrents, no matter what the breed. According to figures from the Home Office, 70% of burglars were put off from breaking and entering by the presence of a dog.

For comprehensive, practical advice for securing your home, see the Home Office Information Guide.

Sainsbury’s offer a range of financial services including savings accounts, pet insurance, life insurance and personal loans.  Visit www.sainsburysbank.co.uk for quotes and more information