When people are victims of burglary they often express feelings of anger, fear and violation, which can stay with them for months or even years. You can reduce the chances of burglary by taking some simple measures.
Windows/doors
- Always lock doors and close windows – even if you are only going out for a short time
- Window locks help prevent easy access to your home (a burglar is less likely to break in if they have to smash a window)
- Fit security grilles to vulnerable windows
- If you are going away for a while, don’t draw your curtains, it is a clear indicator that the house is empty
- Use deadlocks where they are fitted. Thieves will find it a lot more difficult to enter or leave a property
- Don’t leave your keys in doors or obvious/visible places
- Make sure your doors are strong and in good condition
- A spy-hole will let you see who is at the door before you open it – keeping the door on the chain will also prevent callers at the door gaining access to your home whilst you talk to them
- Do not keep spare keys outside, in the garage or shed, keep all keys and valuables out of sight
Lighting/alarms
- Good external lighting can deter a potential burglar as it increases the chances that they will be seen
- Lighting can be controlled with timers, passive infra-red (P.I.R.) or photoelectric cell (dusk to dawn light)
- User timer-switches for internal lights and radios, when you are away over night
- Tune your radio into a station that has more talking than music
- Visible burglar alarms and good security lighting will help protect your home
- Fencing at the back of your home will make the area more secure, consider using weld mesh fencing and thorny plants (using solid fences/walls will give a burglar cover)
Flats or multiple occupancy dwellings
- Your front door should be as secure as the main entry door, if it isn’t replace it
- Fitting steel protective strips to doorframes will strengthen them. Hinge bolts will prevent doors being pulled off their hinges
- Consider fitting a telephone entry system. Do not ‘buzz’ open the door for strangers or hold open the door for persons you do not know are residents
If you are burgled
- When you arrive home and notice signs of a break-in, do not enter the property or shout as the intruder may still be inside
- Go to a neighbour and call the Police.
For more information you can get useful advice by calling, Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111.