Bulldog Blog

Our homes are our castles....
We take pride in them, use them to spend time with loved ones, and it's where we should all feel safe.

Did you know......?
🏰 Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, the home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years.
🏰 Windsor Castle has over 1,000 rooms and more than 300 fireplaces
🏰 The Smallest Castle in the UK is Molly's Lodge, a Grade II Listed castle that sits on a 0.61-acre plot of land near the village of Long Compton in Warwickshire
🏰 The Tower of London is actually a Castle...The most secure Castle in the land!
🏰 Castle Drogo is the last castle to have been built in Britain, between 1911 and 1931
🏰 There are 3 Royal ‘castles' Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and The Palace of Holyroodhouse
🏰 Buckingham Palace has cinema, swimming pool, post office, police station, clinic and an in-house ATM...Convenient for when you want to take out money to look at pictures of yourself!

Just like every other castle we need to have defences in place to prevent attacks.

Storming your Castle
🏰 817 houses are burgled in the UK each day
🏰 An average burglary takes less than 10 minutes
🏰 The average cost of a residential burglary in the UK at £3,030
🏰 3.9m people have had their homes broken into multiple times
🏰 Semi-detached houses are the most common property type targeted by burglars
🏰 Only 32% of British households have a burglar alarm
🏰 77% of people with at least a basic home security system are not burgled.

Looting... What do they really want?
👑 Purse/Wallet/Money/Cards/House keys/Documents
👑 Jewellery/Watches/Mobile phones
👑 Computer/Electrical goods/Camera
👑 Household items/ Sports equipment/Bicycle
👑 Vehicle/Vehicle Parts/Car keys
👑 Handbag/briefcase/Shopping bag
👑 Tools/Work Materials/Garden furniture

Defending your castle

We have all worked too hard to create a safe haven for ourselves and our families to have any part of it stolen away by a thief. A small investment in home security can allow you to sleep more soundly, help to prevent break-ins and maybe even reduce your home insurance premium.

Now our new King is getting settled into his castle...
Let's look at how to protect ours

Burglars tend to avoid houses with visible security systems like home alarms or CCTV and secure doors and windows. Start with simple steps like getting into the habit of locking your door especially when you are at home or in the garden. 70% of burglars enter a property through an unlocked door and 50% of burglaries occur whilst someone is actually at home. Consider fitting a letterbox cage to avoid anyone ‘fishing' for keys through your letterbox.

Outdoor security lighting is vital for protecting your castle during hours of darkness. 60% of all burglaries take place between 6pm and 6am and lighting up outside your home can act as an excellent deterrent against would be burglars.

Burglars are opportunistic. 47% of burglaries happen on a spur of the moment so, make sure your castle doesn't look like easy pickings for them. One of the biggest downfalls is having your possessions on show. It's very tempting for a would-be intruder who may like what they see too much to pass it by. Think about where you place your belongings within the home and use window dressings that obscure the view from outside. Dispose of packaging of new items such as TVs directly at your local recycling plant rather than leaving it on show next to your bin.

Multiple layers of defence (because a moat or catapult might not be an option!)
🏰 Install a home security system for peace of mind when you are at home or away
🏰 Use your Security lighting to illuminate dark areas around the outside of your castle and take away any potential hiding places for crooks
🏰 Check your locks and make sure they are in good working order. Pay special attention to Garage locks, Sheds locks and any security measures you have on outbuildings.
🏰 Windows and doors which are not used regularly should also be checked on a regular basis.
🏰 Join local community groups, either in person or on social media. It will keep you up to date with local news and make you aware of anything suspicious happening in your area.
🏰 Avoid showboating. High value possessions in plain site are more likely to be taken. Look through your windows to see what a burglar can see. Consider changing your layout or invest in suitable window coverings
🏰 Consider using security boxes or good hiding places within the home for any items of value
🏰 Add gravel to your driveway and path, the perimeter of the house and under windows. Gravel makes a great crunching noise that can alert you to an intruder approaching your property.

Did you know......?
Fun Facts about King Charles III
👑 Was the longest waiting heir apparent to the throne in British history
👑 The oldest British monarch ever to be crowned.
👑 Was the first baby of the 20th century born in Buckingham Palace (14th November 1948)
👑 The first heir to the throne to attend primary school
👑 The first heir to earn a university degree.
👑 Served in the Royal Navy from 1971 to 1976
👑 Plays three instruments cello, piano and trumpet
👑 Founded nearly 20 charities and is patron of more than 400
👑 Has a frog named after him. An endangered species of Ecuadorian tree frog was announced as the Hyloscirtus princecharlesi, or the Prince Charles stream tree frog
👑 Is considered one of the UK's most successful living artists, his paintings have sold for more than $2 million
👑 Runs his Aston Martin (a 21st birthday gift from his mum) on bio-fuel made from surplus English wine. His Jaguars, Audis and Range Rovers run on used cooking oil.
👑 Has a really long royal name. His full official title before King was:

His Royal Highness Prince Charles Philip Arthur George, Prince of Wales, KG, KT, GCB, OM, AK, QSO, PC, ADC, Earl of Chester, Duke of Cornwall, Duke of Rothesay, Earl of Carrick, Baron of Renfrew, Lord of the Isles and Prince and Great Steward of Scotland.

Did you know......?
Fun Royal Facts
👑 The Queen's coronation in June 1953 was the first major royal event to be fully broadcast on TV.
👑 Queen Elizabeth II was the longest reigning British Monarch. With an impressive 70 years and 214 days. Her rule spanned 15 British prime ministers and 14 American presidents!
👑 Queen Elizabeth II was the second-longest-reigning monarch of all time after French King Louis XIV who served as monarch for more than 72 years after taking the throne at age four
👑 The Queen invented a new dog breed - The Dorgi, a Dachshund Corgi cross
👑 Kings and Queens have two birthdays. If a monarch doesn't have a summer birthday, then they will have a second one in June for the Trooping the Colour parade. This tradition was first introduced in 1700's with King George II and will continue with King Charles III in November and June
👑 The Royal Family are not allowed to sign autographs in case somebody tries to forge their signature.
👑 In the UK, the monarch does not need a passport to travel overseas because passports are issued in his or her name. The same rules apply for driver licences

You can view the full Bulldog range on our dedicated websites
Security Products www.bulldogsecure.com
Home Alarm Systems www.bulldogsecurealarm.com
GPS Trackers www.bulldogtracking.co.uk

Sadly, rural crime continues to affect many...
It is organised, repetitive and the impact on farmers, businesses and the local rural communities should not be underestimated

Rural crime tends to fall into one of four categories:
• Agricultural - working farms, farm machinery, farm buildings and smallholdings.
Offences include theft of equipment or fuel, damage to property and livestock worrying.
• Equine - working stables and equestrian centres. Offences include tack theft and livestock worrying.
• Wildlife - Offences include hare coursing, poaching and interfering with protected species
• Heritage - Offences include lead theft, damage to ancient monuments and illegal metal detecting.

Everybody needs good neighbours! If you have people living nearby why not organise a get together in your local pub. Not only will you get to sample a few pints and make friends but, this will also give you an opportunity to discuss anything that is concerning in your area and work together to look out for any suspicious activities.
You may want to organise a social media page or WhatsApp group and join a local rural crime watch to keep everyone informed of suspicious activities that you need to be aware of. You could carry out regular drive-bys together to monitor local activity.
Being vigilant and alert can help to prevent a crime from taking place!

Being vehicle vigilant
Take extra measures to protect all vehicles. 4x4's, quads, fork lifts, trucks, tractors, and horse boxes are present on many rural properties, and due to there high resale value these expensive vehicles are common targets for thieves.
All vehicles whether car, quad or tractor should have the keys removed when they are not in use. At the end of the day, keys should ideally be hidden in a Security box within a secure location.
Avoid leaving vehicles where they can be easily seen. Where possible, vehicles should be housed in a lockable garage or building, ideally with security lighting installed to the perimeter. Gangs typically target high-value equipment by staking out farms and rural properties during the day and return late at night under the cover of darkness to steal and potentially clone it. Trackers are a great bit of kit should anything go missing but remember to add visual deterrents like a steering wheel lock and wheel clamp.

Quad and ATV theft is on the up. They are easy to transport and the absence of registration plates makes it harder to identify them once stolen. Fitting Trackers and Chains to anchor them down will help to deter any potential theft. Take photographs and record makes and models of all equipment and vehicles you have to help police investigate and aid insurance claims should the worst happen.

According to NFU Mutual rural thieves are not only targeting new vehicles but also old pick-up trucks too. Older Toyota Hilux and Mitsubishi L200 are the most regularly targeted pick-up models. The average age of L200s stolen in 2022 was 12 years, and 10 years for Hilux vehicles.
Shipping delays and the effects of Covid and Brexit are contributing to the rise in demand for new and second-hand machinery and rural thieves are continuing to steal large numbers of Land Rover Defenders and their parts due to the high resale value.

In 2022 Trailer theft increased by 69%. This year it is expected to rise even further due to high demand and inflated prices of trailers and horseboxes. Again, record all details of your trailer, take photos and fit wheel clamps, hitch locks and a TR55 Tracker. Anything that obstructs a thief and prevents them from easily accessing what they want, can put them off committing the crime in the first place!

Explore your Estate and buildings
Farmhouses and other rural properties need the same security as any other home. But, if you own a rural home you might have multiple structures on your property that may not be visited for weeks at a time. Because of the remote location, additional security measures are needed and it's important to secure all areas of your property that store valuables.
Keeping your yard tidy and clear of tools and machinery is one of the easiest things to do. If it's not visible to a thief and they can see a security system in place, they will be less likely to go through with the crime.

• Carry out regular checks on boundaries making sure they are well-maintained and secure
• Keep all doors and windows shut and locked when not in use
• Install a visible burglar alarm in all buildings
• Invest in good Security lighting
• Ensure windows & doors are secure
• Fit strong locks to sheds, garages, outbuildings and skips
• Maintain security equipment regularly to ensure it works correctly
• Use security posts or temporary obstructions to control wide access points to yards

Take care of Tools & Equipment
With a rise in theft of smaller, portable items like tractor GPS systems and power tools such as chainsaws, jet washers and welders ensure they are kept in a secured building or container.

• Install a burglar alarm on buildings where equipment is kept
• Always lock vehicles
• Keep expensive items out of sight when not in use
• Consider using hitch locks, wheel clamps or chains & ground anchors
• Keep a record of all valuable items and take photographs
• Fit outside security lights
• Fit strong Door locks to sheds, garages and outbuildings
• If you use a storage container add a container lock

Focus on Fuel
Fuel theft more than doubled in 2022. Fuel thieves often target farms and rural homes under the cover of darkness where, if they are not properly protected, they can drain tanks within minutes. Anything from basic plastic tubes to pumping apparatus is used to siphon causing both a financial loss and huge inconvenience to the owner.
Whether fuel is being stored in a fixed tank or is in a vehicle there is a risk of theft.
Fit fuel bowsers with wheel clamps or hitch locks. Heating Oil tanks can be secured with a Fuel tank lock and consider motion activated security lighting around the tank areas. If vehicles or machinery are kept outside, park them with the fuel caps against a fence or wall.

Guard with Gates
Maintaining your gates is vital job that we sometimes overlook. Even if not used regularly, make sure they are well-maintained and locked with a good quality padlock and chain. A rusty lock is easier to penetrate and gives a thief the impression that your property might not be well secured and maintained either. Hinges on your gates should be capped or inverted to prevent easy removal.
Restrict the access to your grounds with locked gates and security posts
The fewer ways in the better!

Be Boundary conscious
Take a good look around your property boundary for any potential places where it could be made more secure.
• Plant thorny hedging. This will deter but also collect vital evidence if crossed by a thief.
• Dig deep perimeter ditches to stop unwanted vehicle access
• Restrict access to your property with locked gates and security posts
• Invert and cap gate hinges
• Make sure fixing bolts are secure and use covered padlocks
• Install warning signs
• Consider installing a visible CCTV system

Avert with Alarm & lights
Keeping watch over your entire property can be a challenge especially at night. Thieves don't want to be seen; they operate well under the cover of darkness.
Consider placing motion-activated security lights that turn on every time they detect movement. Not only will this alert you, it will also act as a deterrent.
Place your lights in vulnerable areas;
• Along the driveway of your home.
• Around all barns, outbuildings, sheds and garages.
• Near the back and front yards of your house.

As well as motion-sensor security lighting, CCTV cameras and Alarms are great for crime prevention. Install in access locations, vulnerable areas and around the perimeter.
Don't forget to place signs around the perimeter warning thieves that your property is protected. Visible deterrents like this are great for warning would-be intruders that your property is going to be more trouble than it's worth!

We are so proud that Bulldog Security Products has reached its 39th year! It all started in 1984 when Ray & Mavis Jordan launched their first Bulldog Product after Ray designed and constructed his first caravan stabiliser in the garden shed. He was convinced that other caravanners would be interested in buying one after several discussions on the dangers of towing a caravan so, he went on to build another 25...and how right he was. His idea was so successful that he formed his own company and set up shop in a Nissen hut in Bridgnorth later moving to Much Wenlock in 1988.

Originally known as Leisure Craft the Jordans decided to change the business name to Bulldog Security Products.. a nod to Winston Churchill and his nickname "British Bulldog" a man who Ray has always admired.

Many happy years continued and the business grew along with their family. Ray & Mavis may have stepped aside now for their children and grandchildren to continue working and improving the business but, 39 years on they are so proud that the Bulldog brand is growing stronger than ever thanks to the dedication of the whole Jordan family and their close-knit team.

Managing Director Ian is the eldest son of the founders and has been with Bulldog all of his working life. He started in the workshop and is now leading the business with his wife and Company Secretary Yvonne and Director brother Neil. Grandchildren Andy and Lucy are also involved to ensure that the company runs smoothly on a daily basis enabling Bulldog to achieve its mission and objectives to its full potential. The family are backed by a very loyal team with an average service length of 30+ years... amazing considering the staff turnover of most companies these days

As you may have guessed, Bulldog are very proud to be a family run British company. We manufacture from our own premises in Much Wenlock, England and source all of our products here in the UK. This enables us to maintain the highest level of quality and service and support other British businesses. Bulldog products are highly sought after in the UK but also export to many destinations all over the world.

The Bulldog product range spans all areas including Leisure, Commercial, Domestic and with three specialist websites for Security Products, GPS Trackers and Home Alarms we have everything covered.

www.bulldogsecure.com
www.bulldogtracking.co.uk
www.bulldogsecurealarm.com

The birds are singing, the plants are blooming and there is a bright yellow circle in the sky.
The first day of spring marks the vernal equinox - the first day of balance between daylight and darkness. Increased light brings an added release of serotonin (the ‘feel-good hormone') into our bodies. The extra hours of sunlight and the ability to go outside can-do wonders for our health and improve our moods.

What is the real name for spring?
Originally, spring was known as lent, or the lenten season, which came from the Old English lengten, which means "to make longer or greater in length." Referring to the fact that the days are getting longer.

Spring is all about new beginnings and transformations, a time of rebirth, renewal and awakening. ...Starting fresh and starting over so let's begin with the outside of our home

🦋 Clear the guttering of any debris - this will reduce pests, boost your kerb appeal and stop expensive water damage

🦋 Fences & gates can have a spruce up, remove debris and repaint if necessary. Maintain or replace locks and chains

🦋 Check bulbs in security lights are working and wipe them over to ensure a nice bright beam

🦋 The dreaded Garage tidy up - this is an ideal time to sort out and sell anything that is no longer used, tidy the area and maintain or replace your garage door locks

🦋 Wash windows and doors to extend their life and enhance your homes appearance

🦋 Clean & weed driveways, check that you have adequate security lighting in the right areas, and add any additional security measures needed such as security posts and a home alarm

With the new blooms of flowers, plants, gardens and trees, many people consider the spring season to be the most beautiful time of the year. After giving your home a big spring clean now its time to move onto the garden

🌷 Sort out your shed. A great time to perform any tool maintenance, oil and sharpen etc. Replenish your supplies of pots, supports & soil

🌷 Check that you have the relevant security measures in place for your sheds & outbuildings. Imagine yourself as a burglar, are you giving them an easy time?

🌷 Maintain or replace door locks and chains & anchors

🌷 Tidy up flowerbeds and borders. Save money by planting hardy vegetables such as onions, peas, cauliflower, leeks & potatoes

🌷 Lawn Care: Remove winter debris and reseed any damaged areas ready for a lush green lawn come summertime

🌷 Clean down any outdoor furniture, BBQs and plant pots

🌷 Lastly, put the kettle on... have a cuppa and admire your hard work!

Facts about spring

🦋 Spring begins on the Vernal Equinox.

🦋 Many cultures celebrate the whole day as the March equinox. But the equinox actually occurs at a specific moment in time around the world when the Sun crosses the celestial equator which in the UK is on Monday 20th March 2023 at 9.24pm.

🦋 An equinox is the only time when both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere experience roughly equal amounts of daytime and night time.

🦋 The name equinox is derived from the Latin words aequus, meaning equal, and nox, meaning night.

Perfect equinoctial markers:
🌷 The Great Sphinx of Giza, built around 2500 B.C as the Sun nears the horizon, you'll observe it settle directly onto the Sphinx's right shoulder.

🌷 Machu Picchu (Peru) Intihuatana is a giant stone at the top of this sacred mountain. Usually, the stone casts a shadow throughout the day, as any other structure would. However, at exactly noon on the date of the spring or autumn equinox, the Sun's shadow disappears! Therefore, the stone is a precise indicator of the date of the two equinoxes.

🌷 Chichen Itza (Mexico) A huge pyramid built around A.D. 1000 The play of the Sun's light on it signals the beginning of the seasons. On the spring equinox, the light pattern looks like a snake. Mayans called this day "the return of the Sun serpent.

www.bulldogsecure.com
www.bulldogtracking.co.uk
www.bulldogsecurealarm.com

🐎
"No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle"
Horses are beautiful majestic creatures that bring joy and happiness to many people around the world. Winston Churchill said "No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle" and with over 374,000 horse owning households in the UK we obviously agree.

🐎
"The world is best viewed between the ears of your horse."
Spring is a fantastic season for horse riding. As we leave the winter behind and warmer weather makes a more regular appearance there are many reasons to smile and plenty of jobs to be done. Our blog will cover some of the fabulous things that only horse owners & riders will understand now that we have finally reached the Spring season.

🐎
"The hardest thing about riding... is the ground."
Fed up of the cold? Riding under floodlights? Mucking out in the dark?
Don't despair. The days are getting longer... the weather warmer...
Nothing puts the spring in both of your step quicker than your first warm day riding outside and spending more time together enjoying nature in the sunshine
After a long winter enjoying the off season, lets be honest, you are both likely to be unfit and stiff. It is important to gradually increase exercises in your horse's routine and also follow your own core, balance and leg exercise and stretching routines to avoid injury.

🐎
"There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man."
Bye bye winter blankets & wellies... Hello ‘Riders Tan' & fly masks!
As the fields and bridleways begin to dry out it's smiles all around with a happier horse and less mucking out for you. All of the extra grooming time with your curry comb is so worth it when you are left with a beautiful shiny summer coat topped off with a new all-important fly mask, your horse will look as cute as a frolicking foal in a field.
Celebrate no more heavy rugs, wet and covered in mud. Get them in the wash, repair (using a repair kit available online) and pack them away in an airtight zip bag and say goodbye for the next few months

🐎
"When you are on a great horse, you have the best seat you will ever have."
SPRING = CLEANING
It's time to clear your house and stables of your horse-riding clutter and remove any unfixable items. Spring days are perfect for moving your horse out of their stable to enjoy the fresh air and you can concentrate on a deep clean.
Don't forget to clean and check all light fittings, windows and maintain your security products. SECURITY LIGHTS are an excellent deterrent that automatically turn on as soon as someone steps foot under them. They can be placed outside the stables and at the yard entrance. If you don't have them already fit CHAINS that cannot be easily cut with bolt cutters on your gates and movable yard equipment.
SECURITY POSTS will secure your horse box/trailer and restrict access when you need to.
Take this time to keep on top of the small jobs like squeaky doors, loose bolts and check DOOR LOCKS or GARAGE LOCKS. Organise your tack room and treat yourself to a SADDLE STOP & WALL BRACKET

🐎
"Riding never gets easier. You just get better."
It's time to contact some fellow horse buddies and arrange a leisurely ride out together. Improve your horse's social skills and everyone's mood.
Schedules will start doing the rounds of shows and competitions, it's another sign that good weather is coming. Preparation for shows is key. Ensure that your tack is clean and always lock inside your horsebox/vehicle during the show
During shows always lock your tack inside the horsebox/vehicle
Prepare your horse box by fitting a WHEEL CLAMP and HITCH LOCK & TR55

"He knows when you're happy. He knows when you're comfortable. He knows when you're confident. And he always knows when you have treats."

Horse facts
🐎 There are over 600 different horse breeds
🐎 Tallest horse Samson stood at 2.20m (21.25 hands) & weighed 3360lbs / 1524kg
🐎 Smallest horse Thumbelina stood at 17.5" and weighed 57lbs / 26kg
🐎 Fastest horse A Long Goodbye was clocked at 55mph
🐎 Highest recorded jump was over 8ft by Huaso ex-Faithful
🐎 Oldest horse Old Billy lived to the grand old age of 62 (average life span 25-30 yrs.)
🐎 The world's most expensive horse is Fusaichi Pegasus who sold for $70m in 2000
🐎 Handy while standing in a queue... A horse can sleep standing up or lying down
🐎 Horses can be found on every continent apart from Antarctica
🐎 The closest relatives to horse are Donkeys, Zebras and RHINOS!?!!
🐎 A horse cannot breathe through its mouth...only its nose
🐎 Horses can't burp or vomit

We've nearly made it to spring! We know some people are hardcore winter caravanners or travelling snowbirds who have enjoyed their second home all year around but, for those who aren't... It's an exciting time of the year when we start to think about the new season ahead of us, wake your caravan from its winter hibernation and get ready to Go Go Go!

WE HAVE PUT TOGETHER SOME HINTS AND TIPS TO HELP PREPARE YOUR CARAVAN FOR THIS YEAR'S ADVENTURES

SPRING CLEAN -Give the caravan a good clean inside and out. After sitting for a long time, she may smell a little musty this can usually be rectified with a few hours of fresh air circulating. This is a great time to check windows and door seals which may be damaged Air the caravan thoroughly before checking for damp paying special attention to soft furnishings.
Always wash your caravan with a garden hose. Don't use a high-pressure hose that can damage seals. Start with the roof and work your way down

SERVICING If you get a service every year as recommended, we suggest that you book this in advance as many dealerships and service centre workshops get very busy at this time of year.
A basic service should include;
• Chassis and running gear
• Electrical Systems
• Gas Systems
• Water Systems
• Bodywork
• Ventilation
• Fire & Safety

TICK IT OFF THE LIST
🗸 ROAD TYRES Replace your WINTER WHEELS with road tyres ensuring the wheel bolts have been properly tightened and there are no signs of rust or wear. Check the condition of your road tyres making sure they are inflated to the correct PSI, check for cuts, bulges and the tread depth should meet legal requirements of no less than 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference. Tyres are date stamped and should be replaced after 5-6 years regardless of tread left.
🗸 WATER Clean & sterilise the water system and Aquaroll to make sure the water you're drinking and using is nice and clean
🗸 GAS - Most caravans use propane or butane gas check your gas bottle is sufficiently full - many suppliers can only refill or exchange bottles due to shortages
🗸 PAPERWORK -Make sure your Caravan & Towing vehicle insurance, tax, MOT & tracking subscriptions are all up to date
Planning on crossing the pond? Then make sure your travel insurance and passports are also current and you adhere to any relevant regulations set by that country. Do not leave any registration documents in the caravan as they can assist thieves' with selling on if stolen
🗸 TOWCAR CHECKS
• Top up oil, coolant and washer fluid
• Check condition and pressure of tyres
• Check towing mirrors
• Clean & lubricate HITCHLOCK and WHEELCLAMPS
• Ensure your tow vehicle is equipped with all current security measures. Consider a GPS TRACKER and STEERING WHEEL LOCK if you do not have one.

🗸 SAFETY/ REPAIR KIT
• Batteries
• Fuses
• Duct tape
• Cable ties
• Bulbs - exterior and interior
• Toolkit
• First aid kit
• Check towing mirrors

EVERYBODY NEEDS GOOD NEIGHBOURS Introduce yourself and make friends - One of the best ways to ensure safety on site is to have plenty of neighbours around who can raise the alarm if anyone is snooping around

SEASONS GREETINGS
Park up your home from home on a seasonal pitch? You should treat your pitch security the same as you would if your caravan was parked at home. Make sure the HITCH LOCK and WHEEL CLAMP are all securely in place and regularly maintained.
Remember your WINTER WHEELS can be used whilst sited on your pitch to save wear and tear on your caravan tyres. Keep Valuables safe on site in our CB10 STORAGE BOX which can be hidden inside a cupboard or wardrobe and consider installing a BD10 Motion Sensor light which is battery operated and easy to install. This will illuminate your pitch when coming back from a trip to the local pub and also deter any potential thieves.

You can view the full Bulldog Security range at www.bulldogsecure.com

As we approach Valentines Day many of us stop to appreciate what is precious to us. While popular culture makes you believe that Valentine's Day is only for love-struck couples, it's a day of love, and that love can be for anyone. Thus, all kinds of love should be celebrated; whether it is for your friends, family and kids. The value placed on a possession is created through a combination of personal importance and monetary value

Precious: Adjective
• valuable and important
• of great value; not to be wasted or treated carelessly
• of great value because of being rare, expensive, or important

Here's some tips on how to protect what's precious to you

Looking after loved ones...
Whether human or part of our animal world we all have a special someone who we want to protect

• Avoid identity theft - check accounts regularly for suspicious activity, never give out personal info or card details over the telephone
• Use social media wisely, important details are often taken from an innocent post.
• Invest in a personal Tracker TR20 & TR99 for loved ones to carry on their person for peace of mind when out and about or home alone
• Self-Care- Be aware of your own mental and emotional health. Take care of your own needs and don't sacrifice your own well-being to please others

Your home is your haven...
A home isn't just somewhere to live it's a haven offering peace, comfort and shelter

• Invest in a home alarm system or even a dummy box to deter burglars
• Secure your home Wi-Fi and create strong passwords. Don't use the same passwords for every account
• Keep personal documents in a safe place CB10
• Install Smoke & Carbon monoxide alarms
• Secure outbuildings and passageways which often contain expensive tools, some of which a burglar could use to break into your home.
• Make sure that garage & shed doors are solid and fitted with good garage door locks. Always keep garage windows and doors locked, particularly if your garage is attached to your house with a door leading inside.
• Chains & Padlocks on side gates and a strong fence can deter burglars
• Gravel driveways and paths make it harder for burglars to approach silently. Security Lights also deter burglars and reduce hiding places.
• If you're a homeowner or business that stores fuels or oils onsite invest in a fuel tank lock.

Passionate about your vehicle?......
Apparently 1 in 10 Brits love their cars more than their partners! If that includes you, don't worry we won't tell! The most common names people give to cars are Betty, Freddie, Daisy and Rosie

Our range of Vehicle Security products include;
• Wheel Clamps
• Steering Wheel Lock
• Van Door Lock
• Tracker BD1 TR36
• Security post

Caravan of Love....
As you know we love our caravans here at Bulldog. They are an affordable way to have regular breaks and amazing experiences on your doorstep and further afield, the added bonus being our dogs can come too! Famous Caravan, Camper & Motorhome lovers include; Coldplay Frontman Chris Martin, Oscar winning Actor Matthew McConaughey, TV Presenter Lorraine Kelly, Chef Jamie Oliver and Dame Helen Mirren

Our range of Caravan, Motorhome and Trailer Security products include;
• Hitch Lock
• Wheel clamp
• Security Post
• Trackers
• Winter Wheels

Valentine's Day Fun Facts....
❤️ The oldest Valentine's Day card was written in the 1400s. It has been preserved in the British Museum for all to see.

❤️ Pets are the Best! While Valentine's Day was originally celebrated for the love among people, people have now started to consider their pets as their Valentines. Approximately 9 million pet owners per year buy gifts for their pets on this special day.

❤️ One day isn't enough for the Argentineans. They take a week to celebrate Valentine's Day and in addition to February 14th they also set aside seven days in July for "sweetness week"!

❤️ Teachers receive the most Valentine's Day cards

❤️ Friends are the real winners in Finland and Estonia who celebrate Friend's Day on February 14th. Cards and gifts are given to everyone from a friend to a neighbour. However, Valentine's Day is still celebrated as a popular day to get engaged in both countries. In Estonia, singletons can also take a ride on the Love Bus, in hopes of meeting an admirer.

In 2022, an average of 159 vehicles were stolen each day which equates to over 58,000 in a year! We have put together some hints and tips to help you keep your vehicle safe.

LOCK it
If you are quickly popping back into the house or refuelling the car, always make sure to lock before you leave. Try to get into the habit of locking your vehicle even if you are only leaving it for a moment. Don't rely on an audio or visual signal actually check its locked as some thieves use ‘jammers' to intercept the signal leaving it unlocked and vulnerable. If your vehicle has wing mirrors that fold in automatically when locked make sure you lock it properly. Many criminal gangs are looking out for vehicles like these where the wing mirrors are still out as its clear that its unlocked. Remember it's illegal to leave your vehicle running unattended so don't be tempted during the cold weather to de-ice or warm the car while you are still inside your home

KEYS or KEYLESS
Keep your keys safe, never leave them unattended in public and when you are at home make sure your keys are both out of sight and reach. It's not uncommon for keys to be stolen from inside your home by thieves fishing for them through your letterbox.
Have a keyless fob to enter and start your vehicle? Always use a faraday bag or shielded wallet when out and about and a lockable metal box when at home, such as our CB10 Portable Security Box. You can also turn off the wireless signals on your fob when it's not being used. This will help to prevent relay theft. Thieves only need to be within metres of your key fob to capture the signal and fool the car into opening and starting.

Be SEEN to Be SECURE
Old school deterrents are making a big comeback in the digital age particularly wheel clamps and steering wheel locks not only are they visible but also very hard to remove easily or quickly. A visual deterrent is a good way to avoid vehicle theft and its often enough to make an opportunistic thief move on to an easier target

LIGHT up your life
Thieves can use darker times during the day and night to conceal their attempts of theft. Security lights placed around your home and parking area can act as both a deterrent and an effective way to spot someone who shouldn't be there!
A private garage with a Garage Door Locks is one of the safest places to park. If this isn't possible or you are out and about try to find a parking space which is well lit, open and has a high footfall making it visible to the general public.

We DON'T need to SEE WHAT You've GOT
Avoid theft or vandalism by taking your belongings with you when leaving your vehicle. Even loose change on display can be enough for some criminals to strike. Remove anything that can be removed such as SAT NAV's and holders (remembering tell-tale suction marks on the glass), phones and keys etc
Don't leave your logbook or service records in your car. It might seem like logical place to store them but, if you're a victim of car theft, the documents will make it easier for the car to be sold and you could become a victim of identity fraud. CB10 Portable Security Box

Keep TRACK of it
Most modern cars will come with a factory fitted immobiliser, but adding a car alarm can reduce your insurance premium as well as the risk of car theft. The next stage would be to fit a tracker. GPS Trackers might not stop thieves from stealing your vehicle, but will offer an extra layer of security, and make the chances of recovering your car much higher if the worst does happen. They are an affordable addition which can aid personal safety, help to reduce insurance premiums and of course increase the overall security wherever you are.

JUST in CASE - EMERGENCY Kit
Taking up just a small amount of space in your boot the below list can make a very big difference in an emergency
• Spare tyre & tools to change
• Warm Clothes/Shoes
• Sunglasses
• First Aid Kit
• Jump leads
• Car Owner's manual
• Ice scraper / De-icer
• Map
• Wind-up Torch
• Water / Snacks
• Phone lead/Charger
• Fuel Can
• Hi-Viz Clothing
• Warning Triangle
• Basic Tool Kit

To view our full range of vehicle and home security products visit our Website

Who started new year's resolutions?
The origin of making New Year's resolutions rests with the Babylonians, who reportedly made promises to the gods in hopes they'd earn good favour in the coming year. They often resolved to get out of debt. The Romans began each year by making promises to the god Janus, for whom the month of January is named

Approximately 40% of UK adults will make a New Year's resolution this year. Resolutions include spending more time with loved ones, sorting out finances and being more eco-friendly.

Success rates of those who make a New Year's resolution:
• Week 1     75% of people are still hanging in there
• Week 2     71%.
• Month 1    64%.
• 6 months   46% are still successful in keeping their New Year's Resolution

Reasons given for failure:
• 35% I set unrealistic goals.
• 33% I didn't track my progress.
• 23% I forgot I made a resolution.
• 10% I made too many resolutions.

Need inspiration? Here's our Top New Year's Resolution ideas

• Manage money better.
• Eat better & Drink more Water
• Learn something new.
• Enjoy life more.

Manage Money Better A New Year's resolution that will help you the most in the long run

• Take control of your finances by evaluating where you are right now. Create a simple budget that works for you and review any debts you may have.
Make a plan for how you'll stick to it and re-examine your budget on a regular basis
• Use comparison websites to compare quotes and reduce your spending by searching for discounts and using vouchers/coupons where available
• Cancel unnecessary subscriptions. You may have some you have never even used!
• Save on your weekly shop by meal planning

Eat Better & Drink more Water

• Weekly meal prepping and planning. Spending more time in the kitchen isn't always easy, but meal prepping can save you time and money during the week.
• Stop asking yourself if you have the time to cook - and rather focus on the kinds of recipes you can do
• Cook something new each week - Everyone wants to eat healthier in the new year, but you should also try to eat more diverse foods. After all, variety is the spice of life. This year, choose an easy dinner recipe you've never tried before at least once a week.
• Drink more water You know you need to hydrate - but it's especially important when you get only six hours of sleep (or less!). You're more likely to be dehydrated the day after a disrupted night of sleep, because a hormone that regulates your body's water conservation is released during later stages of sleep. So down some extra water on those days if you can - and remember that too much water can be tricky for your gut, too.

Learn something new Exercise your brain!

• Read more books... Being part of a local library means you don't need to spend a penny to read the latest blockbuster and you can also access free computer facilities or try a new music album or film.
• Join a local club - learn a new skill and increase your social circle.
• Explore new hobbies at home. Grow some herbs or veggies to lower your weekly shopping bill. Get out Grandmas old knitting needles and make a blanket for the local hospital or animal shelter.
• Become a plant parent - The presence of indoor plants can lower human stress levels, actively caring for plants can calm the autonomic nervous system and lower blood pressure.

Enjoy life more. This one's obvious; we all like to have fun and enjoy ourselves. ...

• Commit to a healthier sleep routine so you are as bright as a button and ready to start your day

• Plan a holiday or short break. Research has found that even thinking about an upcoming trip can boost happiness for weeks. The pandemic brought a lot of uncertainty about travelling abroad for some so instead, you might take a UK camping trip, visit the next town over in your caravan, or explore some National Parks with a hiking club. 

• Make time for cuddling. When we cuddle our bodies release "feel good" hormones. Once the hormones are released, we experience feelings of happiness, relaxation and lower levels of depression.

• Chill out! Start working on letting go of any anger. Constantly feeling angry can induce headaches, anxiety, digestion problems and high blood pressure, among other drawbacks. Say goodbye to toxic people and get the closure you need to grow.

• Give yourself AND others more compliments.

• Put your phone down. 83% of people claim to have lost track of how long they have spent on their devices... Time which can be better spent with loved ones or self-care.

• Play upbeat music - Blasting out your favourite song can help to reduce pain and lower stress levels.

• Make time for Self-care

• This one should be a priority! Do something nice for yourself once a week. It could be enjoying a long soak in the bath or treating yourself to a manicure.

• Do whatever feels fun. Life is short. Live it!

There is a burglary in the UK every 108 seconds. By taking simple measures, you can concentrate on having a great Christmas without having to worry about the security of your home.

Light Up your Home Burglars can use the darker days around Christmas to conceal their break-ins from your neighbours. Security lights placed around your home can act as both a deterrent and an effective way to spot anyone trying to break into your home. A lovely display of festive lights can also help to provide some much-needed illumination around your house at this time of year.

Hide Presents. Once presents are bought and wrapped, its tempting to leave them under the tree ready for Christmas day. However, if your tree can be seen from the outside, it provides temptation to burglars who will know where to find them without searching and increasing the risk of being caught. The loft is a great place to keep them as its hard to get to. Only bring presents out on Christmas Eve to give intruders a smaller chance of seeing them and planning a break-in.

Don't let your home appear empty. If you're going away for Christmas, do everything you can to ensure a burglar can't find out. Burglars often look for signs that homeowners are on holiday e.g., social media, post by the door, empty driveways and no lights on. A home alarm system not only gives peace of mind when away but also when you are at home.

Don't tell the whole world. Criminals are turning to social media to look for potential targets. Telling every man and their dog your plans let burglars know when your house is going to be empty. Uploading your expensive Christmas gifts on Facebook is another bad idea, you're basically advertising your expensive items that are available to be taken from your home! If you can't face the thought of a social media free Christmas, make sure that the privacy settings on your accounts are up to date and only those that you want to see, can!

Lock up Garden Sheds & Garages. We often forget to secure outbuildings like sheds and garages. These areas give intruders additional entry points to your main home and access to tools that will make their break-in easier. Security lights and high-quality locks can help here! Burglaries can have a significant financial, emotional and mental impact on your family. Make sure your Christmas isn't ruined by protecting your home from break-ins.

Recycle packaging carefully. If your lucky enough to be gifted expensive items at Christmas, be careful not to advertise your new valuables to burglars by leaving the packaging outside. Fold packaging down (ideally inside out) to fit in your recycling bin, take it to your nearest recycling centre, or only put it out right before its due to be collected.

Keep cash secure. Cash is a popular gift for those hard-to-buy-for loved ones. Just be careful how you store it around the house. If you have to keep cash at home rather than in the bank invest in a security box and keep it out of view along with all bank cards, important documents and receipts.

Enjoy yourself Most importantly, enjoy the festive season and have a great Christmas!