Where do you store your family gold and valuables?

Where do you store your family gold and valuables? 
 
If you’re heading out to visit family over this festive period, be sure to lock away all jewellery, gold, and designer goods in a secure safe.  In recent weeks we have had incidents of theft of gold.
 

We’ve put together some advice to help keep you and your valuables safe. 
 

Store valuables in a safe 

One of the most effective ways to protect your valuables, such as gold, jewellery, and documents, is by investing in a home safe.  
 
A fire-rated safe is highly recommended to ensure your items are protected in the event of a fire.  
 
Additionally, choose a safety deposit box if you prefer storing your items outside of your home for enhanced security. Many items, including family heirlooms and precious metals, are ideal for safety deposit vaults, which remove the risks of keeping them on your premises. 
 

While vaults offer increased security, it's essential to contact your insurance provider to determine how this might affect your policy and ensure they provide adequate cover. 
 

Choose an accredited safe and secure enclosures 

When selecting a home safe, ensure you check it is accredited by Secured by Design (SBD). SBD is the official police security initiative that works to improve the security of buildings and their immediate surroundings to provide safe places to live, work, shop and visit. 
 

It’s important to position the safe appropriately. Avoid placing it in easily accessible or obvious locations like the bedroom, as burglars often check there first.  
 

Move your safe away from any sliding doors, windows, or back doors. Bolt your safe to a wall or floor will significantly increase its security. 
 

Do not conceal your safe in places with high traffic areas that are open to the outside world regularly such as garages, sheds, and side entrances. 
 

Back to basics 

Stop burglars in their tracks - check your doors, windows, and porches are locked. 

Many home insurance policies will only cover you for burglaries if you've secured your property properly so don't leave doors unlocked or keys in sight. Some home insurance policies might even require a specific door lock so spend time reviewing your policy. 

Most UPVC and composite doors use euro-cylinders. We recommend fitting 3-Star TS007 anti-snap cylinders. 
 

We have seen a rise in car-key burglary and relay attacks across the West Midlands. Be sure to keep your keys in a signal-blocking pouch, and out of sight. If you have one, always secure a steering lock to deter burglars taking your vehicle.  
 

If you see anyone acting suspiciously or want to report a crime after it’s happened call us on 101. In an emergency, always call 999. 
 

For more crime prevention advice head to our website: Keep burglars out of your property | West Midlands Police