Anti Social Behaviour, distraction burglay, street crime

domestic violence, domestic burglary, drug and alcohol abuse

How Secure is your Home

Introduction

Don't become a victim of burglary. Make your home secure. This booklet gives you practical advice on the security measures that you should take for different parts of your home.

Leaving your home
When leaving your home, even for a short period, always lock all external doors and windows and set your burglar alarm (if you have one).

If you are going away for a longer time, use a timer or sensor to control your lighting (see page 7, Lighting) so your home looks occupied. Make sure you cancel your milk and newspaper deliveries while you're away.

Fire safety
Fit smoke alarms that conform to the British Standard (BS 5446) on every floor.

Bogus callers
Not all burglars break in. Some will try to get you to open the door and let them in. They may pretend to be from the water, gas, electricity, phone or TV company. Protect yourself against bogus callers by remembering:

stop - are you expecting anyone?

Put the door chain on before opening the door; and

check - ask to see an identification card and phone the company they say they are from.

If they really are who they claim, they won't mind waiting while you check or coming back when you're not alone.

If in doubt, keep them out.

Front Door Security
Your front door is most likely to be made of wood, PVCu or metal (usually aluminium).

The construction of PVCu doors makes it difficult to install additional locks and other security fittings at a later date. It is important to seek advice from the installer or manufacturer if you require additional security. If you try to fit locks, door chains or viewers yourself, you could cause irreparable damage and invalidate your guarantee. Your door should be secure if it is installed to the manufacturer's specifications including being fitted with a good quality multipoint locking system. If you have any doubts about the strength or solidity of your door or frame, you should ask an expert for advice.

Metal doors are generally solidly built and can be fitted with suitable locks and security fittings, but you should consult the installer or a qualified locksmith before making any modifications.

Most doors are wood, and anyone with DIY experience should be able to make improvements.

If your home has a porch with an inner and outer door, both doors must be made secure. If intruders get through the outer door of your porch they could attack the inner door without being seen or heard.

Think about fitting a strong barrel (tower) bolt inside your front door (at the bottom). When you are at home at night you can use it instead of the mortice lock so that you can get out quickly in an emergency.

How Secure is your Home - Detailed Guide - Part 2