Security Tips
Here are just a few tips:-
- The Thames Valley Police recommend fitting front and rear doors with a 5, 6 or 7 lever mortice locks. In addition, rim locks and mortice bolts are advisable
- Lock your doors before leaving your property and during the night - especially UPVC doors which may still be opened with the door handle lifted
- All external doors should be PAS24 tested
- Apply lockable window handles (and make use of them!)
- Don’t forget to secure sheds, side gates or garages which may give entry to your property. Padlocks or trellis for fences can and do deter potential burglars
- Dog lovers - Make sure you choose a pet-friendly alarm system to increase your chances of deterring intruders. Research has shown that evidence of pets is also a temptation for burglars e.g. displaying a sign such as 'beware of the dog' or having an 'I love cats' sticker in your window suggest that if there is an alarm system fitted, it isn't in use. Fitting a cat flap into a door will weaken the door and make it easier to break down”. Read the whole article at www.independent.co.uk
- Check if your alarm can protect your property against lockpicking. This major danger to home-owners is on the increase and arms intruders with a set of universal keys that can fit almost any lock and give them entry to your property without damage. This type of burglary is difficult to prove when making a claim on your insurance if there is no visible damage or forced entry. For more information on lockpicking see www.youtube.com
- Natural resources come in useful – try planting prickly shrubs next to a climbable fence
- Install sensor-operated security lights near doorways to both the front, side and rear of your property
- A question you might want to consider, especially if renting or having just moved into a new home, is who of the previous owners / (past) landlords or friends / relatives of theirs are still keyholders to your property. If this is not a simple question to answer, you might want to think about changing the locks.
Finally, invest in a good-quality burglar alarm to be set every time the property is vacant and during the night. This way, you will remain in control over anyone that attempts to enter your property. Don’t become a victim of circumstances – take preventative measures now.