Protecting and Marking Your New Valuables
Christmas is often the time that new, high-value gifts come into our homes - laptops, tablets, phones, games consoles, jewellery, bicycles and power tools are all popular presents.
Unfortunately, these items are also attractive to thieves, particularly in the weeks after Christmas when criminals know many households have new and desirable property.
Taking a few simple steps now can significantly reduce the risk of theft and increase the chances of recovery if the worst does happen.
Avoid Advertising New Purchases
One of the simplest but most overlooked security measures is avoiding accidentally advertising new items.
Leaving branded packaging outside your home can clearly signal to criminals what may be inside. Breaking down boxes, turning them inside out or placing them discreetly into recycling can help reduce this risk. Where possible, wait until collection day before putting packaging out.
Social media can also unintentionally alert thieves. Posting publicly about new high-value items, especially with photographs or location information, can highlight what you own and where it is kept. Consider limiting who can see these posts or waiting before sharing details online.
Store New Items Securely
Good security starts with sensible storage. When items are not in use, keep them out of sight and, ideally, locked away.
Small high-value items such as jewellery, watches and passports should be stored in a locked drawer or a home safe that is secured to the fabric of the building. Larger items like laptops and tablets should not be left near windows or doors where they can be easily seen from outside.
Bicycles, scooters and power tools should be stored in a locked garage or shed. If you use a shed, ensure it either has a base or is firmly attached to the ground, has strong locks and hinges, and consider additional security such as a shed alarm or security lighting. Even within a garage or shed, items should be secured to a solid anchor point, adding another layer of protection.
Always lock doors and windows when leaving the property, including upstairs windows. If you are away overnight, timer switches on lights can help give the impression that someone is at home.
Mark Your Property
Property marking is one of the most effective ways to deter theft and help police return stolen items to their rightful owner.
Visible property marking shows that items are traceable and can discourage thieves from taking them in the first place. There are a range of recognised property marking methods available, including permanent marking, ultraviolet solutions and forensic marking products that contain unique identifiers which are extremely difficult to remove.
Focus on marking items that are portable, valuable and commonly targeted by criminals. This includes electronic devices, bicycles, tools and mobility equipment.
Register Your Valuables
Marking your property is only part of the process. Recording ownership details is just as important.
Registering your valuables on a recognised property database allows police to link recovered items back to their rightful owner. Adding serial numbers, descriptions and photographs can make a significant difference if items are stolen and later recovered.
If you use a forensic marking product, you can also register the unique code with the relevant database linked to that system. This ensures police can quickly trace items back to you.
Secured by Design accredits a number of property registration organisations, which can be searched here.
Make a habit of updating your records whenever you receive new items or replace existing ones.
A Few Minutes That Make a Big Difference
The period after Christmas is a good opportunity to review your home security and take practical steps to protect new possessions. Secure storage, discreet behaviour, property marking and proper registration all work together to reduce the risk of theft and improve the chances of recovery.
A few simple actions now can help ensure your new gifts remain safe and secure throughout the year.
To search our current list of products in the Property and Asset Marking category, visit our Product Category Search.
For more advice on crime prevention and securing your home, visit the Secured by Design website.