Burglary
Security Advice
Burglars are lazy, looking for the easiest opportunities with the least risk.
Homes with no security measures in place are 5 times more likely to be burgled than those with simple security measures.
75% of burglaries are preventable.
Good window locks, strong deadlocks on doors and a secure side gate can make a big difference, together with lighting once night approaches.
Basic dos, don’ts and why
Two thirds of burglaries gain entryfrom the rear.
Additional deterrents & safeguards
Mark your property with postcode and house number or very simply use forensic DNA that is unique to you (NHW recommends SelectaDNA) which automatically registers all marked items,and/or register your property for free with Immobilise.
Store any high value items (i.e. jewellery, passports) in a properly secured safe or bank vault.
Consider installing a burglar alarm.
Consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
Extra security for doors and windows
In most burglaries, the break-in occursthrough front or back doors, either by forcing the lock or kicking it in. So make sure your doors are strong and secure. Minimum standard of security for doors and windows should be PAS: 24.
Glass panels in doors are particularly vulnerable. Consider replacing it with laminated glass, which is stronger, or buying a film in a DIY store that can be stuck over the glass to make it harder to break.
Home security and DIY shops sell inexpensive, key-operated locks to fit most kinds of windows. Fit window locks with keys to all downstairs windows and those upstairs that are easy to reach. Never leave the keys in the locks.
Consider fitting an internal letter plate over the letter box opening to help prevent fishing,
Extra considerations when going away
Make your home look like someone is living in it, visibly unoccupied homes aremore of a target:
Use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights and radios on/off.
Ask a trusted neighbour to:
Cancel any newspaper or milk deliveries.
Consider using the Royal Mail's 'Keepsafe' service - they keep your mail for up to 2 months while you're away. Mail sitting on your doorstep or visibly piling up behind the door is a sure sign that you’re away.
Avoid discussing holiday plans or posting holiday photos on public social networking sites. Burglars could use this information to their advantage.