The UAE crime rate may be low, but care still needs to be taken at home

Crime may not be a major concern in the UAE but that's no reason to get complacent. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to home security.

Firstly, change all your locks when you move into a new house. It is easy to put it off when you're in the midst of moving, but you have no idea how many people might be in possession of keys to your front door. Be careful who you give a spare key to.

If you're prone to losing your keys and think it's a good idea to hide a spare under a plant pot or doormat, think again. Instead, wrap the key in foil and bury it somewhere.

Similarly, if you are hiding valuables inside your home, try and avoid obvious places like bedside drawers, under the mattress and inside figurines. Try a kid's sock drawer or somewhere equally inconspicuous.

Think about your landscaping. Thorny shrubs, such as rose bushes, under ground floor windows will act as a deterrent.

Be sure to amp up your security if you are going away. An accumulation of flyers and other advertising material on your front door will be a sure-fire sign that there's no one in, so get a neighbour or friend to come over and clear everything away. Also get them to turn lights on and off to make it seem like there's someone home.