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Guide to Home Security

 

Windows

If you are replacing windows take the opportunity to install new ones that are certified to British Standard BS7950 ‘windows of enhanced security’ and consider using laminated glass, particularly in ground-floor and accessible windows, as this is much harder to break.

Otherwise, window locks that can easily be seen from outside may put some burglars off, because they would have to break the glass and risk attracting attention. And even if they do break the window, they still can’t open it so risk cutting themselves climbing through the broken glass.

It is recommended that you fit window locks to all downstairs windows and windows that are in easy reach – for example, those above a flat roof or near a drainpipe.

Even small windows such as skylights or bathroom fanlights need locks. A thief can get through any gap that is larger than a human head.

REMEMBER TO KEEP WINDOWS LOCKED. REMOVE THE KEYS AND KEEP THEM OUT OF SIGHT IN A SAFE PLACE.

Louvre windows are especially vulnerable because burglars can easily take the slats out of the frame. Glue the slats into place, and fit a special louvre lock. Better still, replace them with fixed glass.

 Doors

If your front and back doors are not secure, neither is your home. Keep them locked even when you’re at home.

If you are replacing or fitting a new door set, make sure that it is certified to British Standard  PAS24-1:1999 ‘Doors of Enhanced Security’

Ask for a door chain or bar and a spy hole to be fitted to the door. The door chain or bar allows you to talk to the caller without opening the door fully, whereas the spy hole lets you see who is at the doorstep.

Make sure the doors and frames are strong and in good condition. Wooden doors should be solid and at least 44mm thick.

Fit five-lever mortise deadlocks (British Standard BS3621:2004) plus a rim lock to all external doors, including fence gate. They make it harder for a burglar to get out again. But don’t leave the key near the door or in an obvious place.

Fit mortise bolts to the top and bottom of all external doors, including both sides of French doors. Install mortise security

Patio doors

Patio doors are especially vulnerable to break-in levering off the tracks. When buying, ask for the sliding section to be on the inside and for anti-lift blocks. Multi-locking systems are recommended, or install mortise security bolts with removable keys at the top and bottom of both doors. Existing patio doors can be fitted with additional security bolts to stop lifting or forced entry

Reminders:-
1.       Spy hole or door viewer

If there is no window near the door which allows you to see who it is at the doorstep, fit a spy hole. Look through it to identify callers before you decide to open the door.

 
2.       Hinges

Check the door hinges are sturdy and secured with strong, long screws. For added security, fit hinge bolt. These are cheap and help reinforce the hinge side of a door against force. Hinge bolts or security hinges are especially important if your door opens outwards.

 
3.       Letterbox cage

Letterboxes should be at least 400mm (16 inches) away from any locks. Consider fitting a letterbox cage or restrictor which prevents burglars from putting their hands or gadgets through the letterbox and trying the catches from the inside.

 
4.       Rim lock

This locks automatically when the door is closed. It can be opened without a key from the inside and should meet British Standards BS3621.

 

For extra protection, you should consider installing the following

 
5.       Automatic deadlock

This locks automatically when the door is closed and is more secure than other types of rim lock. It needs a key to open it from both the inside and the outside and should meet British Standard BS3621. Ideally, both types of lock should be fitted to a door at roughly one third spacing.

 
6.       Door chains or bars

These allow the door to be opened a short distance to allow checking of identification. They can stop callers pushing their way in, but must be securely fixed to avoid screws being pulled out.

 
7.       Mortise deadlock

Fit five-lever mortise deadlocks (British Standard BS3621) to all external doors, about a third of the way up the door.

 1 Stop Locksmiths carry out FREE of charge home security inspections. Call us now on 0800 731 5765 to book your inspection.1 Stop Locksmiths carry out all of the above services at an unbeatable rate. Statistics show that properties with little security are 10 times more likely to be burgled than those with good security.Good news is that is does not take much to secure your home – and put off thieves.

Call us today on 0800 731 5765 / 07838 804 316

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How at risk is your home from burglary?

Click on this link and you will be directed to the Home Office Website and undertake a three-minute test that can help you discover how safe your property is from burglars. Give it a try!