last updated 27th October 05
by 4ecotips.com

Security begins on your doorstep

Break-ins involving UK domestic properties seem to be going down little by little. But they are still currently running at around 940,000 a year.

An efficient home is also a secure one but most of us take the attitude that " a break in could never happen to me." Consequently we overlook the gaps in our domestic defences and the next thing we know the thief has slipped past and dashed off with the family silver.

So home security is a real priority! But it doesn't have to be expensive. For a relatively modest amount of money you can make your home secure and a real deterrent to would-be intruders.

One of the most important things is to make sure that potential access points around your home are not obscured by tress, plants and shrubs. If possible make sure all doors in and out of your place are clearly visible from the road or can be seen by your neighbour.

Also, your home is not secure unless all access doors are strong and sound, and the frames are in good condition. Make sure, too, that any glass panels in or near them are of laminated glass.

Make sure your locks are up to the job. Most insurance companies expect a five lever mortise/sash deadlock for maximum security. But there are also some very capable rim deadlocks recommended for doors to thin for a mortise lock.

Being secure, however, isn't only about your home. It's also about the area in which you live. Some neighbourhoods are more at risk than others. So installing a home security system can be a major deterrent but maybe another positive strategy could be to set up a neighbourhood watch scheme and involve the other residents.

Making your home secure is also about family habits. For instance, if you have a large family where someone is almost always home, you may be less at risk than someone who lives alone and is frequently away on business trips.

The value of your home and your possessions is also a factor, although thieves can also be tempted by less valuable items if they believe they will be easy to sell on.

Of course, if you want the ultimate in burglar deterrents then you can fit CCTV. There are systems around that can be installed by most competent DIYers and they can even be linked to video systems to record the movements of a would-be intruder.

For some very useful additional information visit the Home Office website on www.homeoffice.gov.uk.