Your Home

Home Security is the best way to reduce your chances of being burgled. A lot of burglaries are spur of the moment, as a burglar may see an open window or other easy point of entry and take their chance. 

Basic Tips 

     When you go out, always lock the door and close the windows - even if you are just going out for a short time.

     Window locks, especially on older windows, will help stop people getting in (and remember a burglar is less likely to break in if they have to smash a window).

     If you have deadlocks, use them. They make it harder for a thief to get out again. But don’t leave the key near the door or in an obvious place.

     Don’t leave spare keys outside or in a garage or shed, and put car keys or garage keys out of sight in the house.

     Use timers for lights and radios if you need to be away from home overnight. They will create the impression that someone is in.

     Visible burglar alarms, good lighting, and carefully directed security lighting can put burglars off. But make sure that lights don’t disturb your neighbours, and that alarms turn off after 20 minutes.

     Fences at the back of the house may make this area more secure, but walls and solid fencing may let a thief break in without being seen.

     A good compromise is chain-link fencing, or trellises with prickly shrubs.

     Fitting ‘a spy hole’ allows you to see who is at the door.

     Having a door chain means that you can open the door a little way to talk to them.

     Make sure that any improvements you make don’t stop you from getting out of your house as quickly as possible if there is a fire.

Who can help you do this?

Tenants

If you rent your house or flat, your landlord has some responsibility towards its security. If your home is not secure, ask your landlord if they will make necessary improvements. It will be cheaper for them to fit window locks than to mend a broken window. If you live in social housing or in a block of rented flats, forming a tenants’ association might make security easier.

Homeowners

Spending money on security measures can seem daunting, but it is a good investment,      but it is a good investment, will last a long time and can add value to your property. Contact your council or local police for help. They may be able to advise you on the best measures to protect your property, and may even have grants to help cover the cost.