Windows

Most burglaries are through windows. Key operated locks should be fitted to all accessible windows, in particular those on the ground floor and near drainpipes and flat roofs. These locks are inexpensive to buy and easy to fit.

- Window Locks

Doors

Outside doors should have deadlocks that at least conform to BS3621. These locks can only be opened by key. A burglar cannot just use a plastic card to push back the tongue of the lock or break a glass panel and reach in to open it. Doors that you usually lock from the inside - for example the back door - should also be fitted with bolts. But locks and bolts are only as strong as the door and the frame to which they are fitted. So check the woodwork and replace it if it is at all weak or rotten. Double doors should have bolts (preferably security bolts with removable keys) at the top and bottom of both doors as well as a lock. On patio doors, additional security locks should be fitted to stop the sliding frame being lifted off the tracks. The sliding leaf of patio doors should be fitted on the inside.

- British Standard Dead Locks
- Mortice Dead Locks

Keys

Never leave keys in a lock - always take them with you. Never leave keys in a "secret" hiding place - thieves know all the hiding places. Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbour.

- Spare Keys & Key Registering

Going Out

A burglar can be in and out of your home in two minutes. So always shut and lock all windows - however short a time you are going to be away. Don't forget garages and sheds - they contain valuable items and tools useful to a burglar. Chain and padlock ladders, or keep them in locked sheds or garages.

Callers

Check the identity of all callers. Before opening your door fully, ask to see their identity card if they claim to be officials. If they are genuine, they will not object to you telephoning their office to confirm their identity. Don't be fooled by a uniform. A door viewer or door chain will help you see who is at the door without opening it fully. IF IN ANY DOUBT, DO NOT LET THEM INTO YOUR HOME.

- Door Viewers
- Door Chains

Holidays

Don't make it obvious that you are away - cancel the milk and newspapers. Ask a neighbour to keep an eye on your home, taking in any packages and removing mail from your letterbox. Install some timer switches to lights that are set at different times throughout the day.

Property Marking

List your valuable items with serial numbers and a short description. Take photographs or videos of items such as jewellery and keep them with your policy.

Mark your property with a property marking kit. Use your postcode and the number of your house. This will help the police to return your property to you if it is recovered. Your local Crime Prevention Officer should be able to advise you.

- Security Marker Pens & Lamps

Safes

If you own valuable property you may prefer the added security of a safe. Before you buy one, consult your insurance company surveyor or Crime Prevention Officer as to which type is best suited to your needs.

Alarms

If you are considering installing an alarm get advice from your insurers first, before buying one. Many insurance companies insist that the installation of alarms is carried out by companies registered with the National Approval Council for Security Systems (Queensgate House, 14 Cookham Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 8AJ).

Most alarms only warn that someone has already broken in. Your first priority is to stop them getting in at all.

- Intruder Alarms

Neighbourhood Watch

Get involved in a neighbourhood watch scheme - or help to set up one. Your local police will give you details.


Source : abi.org.uk


Related Products -

- Window Locks
- British Standard Dead Locks
- Mortice Dead Locks
- Door Viewers
- Door Chains
- Security Marker Pens & Lamps
- Intruder Alarms