Home Security
Advice
In 3 out of
10 burglaries, thieves do not have to use force. They get in through an open
door or window. The following 'top tips' have been drawn up to help reduce
the risk of burglary:
1.
Windows - in just under one third (30%) of
burglaries with entry, the thief gained access through an unlocked door or
open window. Make sure doors and windows are locked particularly when
leaving the house.
2.
Lighting - leave a light on to give the
impression there is someone at home. 58% of burglaries take place in the
evening or night and 34% occur at the weekend. Time switches can be fitted
to operate radios and lights when you are out.
3.
When the clocks go back
- this article looks at the increased risk of burglary during the winter
months, and gives some information on what can be done to alleviate the
risk.
4.
Burglar Alarms - visible burglar alarms make
burglars think twice. Those connected to a monitoring service are the best,
get specialist advice.
5.
Keys - never leave a spare key in a convenient
hiding place such as under the doormat or in a flowerpot - a thief will look
there first. If you've moved into a new house, consider changing the back
and front door locks - other people may have keys that fit. Never leave keys
near a window or door (thieves are increasingly stealing car keys so they
can take cars, often using a hook or magnet on a stick pushed through the
letterbox).
6.
Secure all doors - if your front and back doors
are not secure, neither is your home. Thieves are most likely to target
doors when attempting to break in (67%). Check the condition of the frames,
hinges and glass panels. Fit such devices as chains and door viewers. Patio
doors will also need special fitted locks.
7.
Garages and Sheds
- are often left unlocked and may be full of tools ideal for breaking into
the rest of the house. Half of burglaries in 2001-02 involved some form of
property damage. Fit sheds and garages with strong padlocks and ideally an
alarm. Always lock ladders in the garage or shed to stop a thief using them.
8.
Postcode your property
- marked property can deter
burglars because it is harder for a thief to sell on and may also help
police secure a conviction.
9.
Good Neighbours - if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your
neighbourhood, call the police. Get in touch your local
Neighbourhood Watch
scheme or form a new one in your area - see what they're doing and how you
can contribute.
10.
Bogus callers - in 4% of burglaries thieves used false pretence to gain
entry to a property. Most people who call at your home will be genuine. But
sometimes, people call with the intention of tricking their way into your
home. They are known as "distraction burglars" or "bogus callers", whose aim
is to get into homes to distract people and steal their money or valuables.
Home Office leaflets gives advice on how to stop the bogus caller getting
into your home, by following the "Lock,
Stop, Chain, Check" method.
If you are unsure about the person at the door, do not let them in.
11.
Insurance - insurance will relieve you of the
financial worry of replacing stolen goods and many insurance companies offer
reduced premiums for people with good home security.
12.
Crime Prevention Officer - contact the crime prevention officer in
your local police force or local council who will be able to give you advice
on making your home and your belongings secure.
13.
Stolen Goods
- do not buy goods that you think
might have been stolen. This is rewarding burglars and encourages people to
commit acquisitive crime, often to fund a drug addiction and a local drug
dealer.
Further advice is
available in "A
Guide To Home Security". Other
crime reduction articles
are also available to download.
Source Home Office |
