With warmer weather hitting the UK and after the hottest May bank holiday on record sizzling many parts of the south east, keeping your home cool is a top priority. But when air conditioning isn’t an option and a fan just blows hot air at you, you might think leaving the window option is the safest option…or is it?
When the nights are still an uncomfortable 15 degrees, keeping your windows open is one of the first things you do to cool down your bedroom, but if an intruder could easily get into your home through the window and you are burgled, many insurers may not pay-out if you make a claim.
People in ground floor accommodation are most at risk as thieves can often see exactly what is on offer in the property and can decide if it is worth chancing and reaching in to grab your property. Make sure anything of value is kept out of sight and locked away if possible. Reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
Not only are you at risk if you leave your house windows and doors open, but you are also at risk if you leave your car windows open. Sometimes there is nothing worse than getting into a baking hot car which has a hot steering wheel and red-hot seats so leaving your windows open all day is one way to cool it down. But any opportunist thieves may be looking to take items such as CD player, sunglasses, satnavs or other high value items you keep in your car and if there is no sign of a break in then you will most likely be denied compensation. This is also a risk if you have a convertible vehicle and don’t lock away goods in the glove compartment.
Safe and Secure
There are ways to have your windows open and still be secure. You can buy a window restrictor cable which prevents the window or door from opening past a certain point, you can ventilate your home without any risks. The device is designed to meet HSE recommendations and surpasses the requirements of British Standard EN 16281. When locked, it withstands forces over 100kg (15 stone), making it strong and durable.
One item which you can buy for your car is a window vent guard which can be easily installed and costs around £5 per window (they are more suitable for rear passenger windows). But even though you have a vent for your vehicle, it is not recommended to leave animals unattended in the car with only the vent offering fresh air during hot weather.
If your car or home insurance is due for renewal and you would like to find a better deal, contact our team on 01243 219333 and get covered.
