We have compiled below some of the useful tips gathered from our constant contact with the police.
WINDOWS
Louvre windows are very vulnerable to thieves because they can remove the slats from the frame. To stop this, glue the slats into place, or even better, replace the window with fixed glass.
A burglar can get through any space larger than a human head, so fit locks to skylight and fanlights
If you are replacing glass in downstairs windows, consider using laminated glass which is much harder to break.
DOORS
Glass panels around doors are especially vulnerable, so replace them with laminated glass or you can buy a special film that will do the same thing.
Use locks that can be deadlocked from the inside (double locking nightlatches) incase thieves break the glass.
Wooden doors need solid frames at least 44mm (13/4") thick to be effective.
Mortice bolts to the top and bottom of all outside doors significantly strengthen your protection
Sliding patio door should have anti-lift devices fitted to the top and bottom to stop them being lifted off from the outside. A shock alarm will also do the trick.
Keys
When you move house, change the locks on your doors. You never know who has been given keys by the previous owner. You can buy replacement cylinders which can cut down on the cost.
Never leave your house or car keys near a door or window. Thieves often steal these by using a fishing rod or magnet through the letterbox. A visor guard is a good idea to prevent this happening.
Decide on a safe place for your keys and know where you can find them in an emergency
If you are going away
Cancel all deliveries and cut the lawn (in summer!) before you go
Try and get a neighbour to keep an eye on your home while you are away and make it look lived in (draw curtains etc)
Keep valuables locked away in a small safe
Don't put your home address on your luggage.
Getting in round the back
Make it as hard as possible for intruders to easily get to the back and sides of your home. Fix holes in fences, grow thorny hedges. We use a excellent new product called Prikka Strip
Don't let hedges grow so high that a burglar can work unseen
Burglars don't like gravel
Prevent burglars easily climbing over walls
Be Prepared!
Mark all your valuable belongings with your post code and no. of you house or first two letters of its name, with an ultraviolet pen
take pictures of all your valuable objects and note the make, model and serial number where applicable.
Do not leave the boxes of new equipment you have just bought outside your home
