- Date Published:
- 21/05/2008
Even if your home is a castle it's going to need protecting from a range of threats ranging from crime to floods. 4Homes and Direct Line bring you some tips.
Beating The Burglar
Very few break-ins are committed by professional burglars - most are carried out by opportunists taking advantage of an open window or the fact that a property is obviously empty.
Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of theft from your home:
- Fit deadlocks or key-operated security bolts to all external doors.
- Fit an approved alarm (and you may also benefit from a discount on your home insurance - look out for the British Standard 'BS4737' code for a good quality alarm).
- Fit key-operated metal locks to all your windows - a burglar will not be able to open them and breaking them will make a noise and possibly attract attention.
- Never leave keys in a lock - always take them with you. Never leave keys in a 'secret' hiding place - for example under a plant pot or doormat - thieves know where to look!
- Check the identity of callers before opening your door fully. Don't be fooled by a uniform - check the identity card and telephone their office if in any doubt - a door chain or viewer will help you see who is at the door without opening it fully.
- Always lock your garden tools and ladders away - leaving them lying around could be an invitation to use them to break in to your home.
- Trim garden hedges so that doors and windows are exposed and burglars can't hide behind them.
- If you're away, cancel the milk and newspapers and ask a trusted friend or neighbour to keep an eye on the property daily and to remove any mail that has piled up, especially if you have a glass door.
- Use a timer to turn on lights while you're out.
- Make sure the area around your home is well lit - fit security lighting if there are shadowed areas.
For More On Burglary Prevention
10 Ways To Baffle Burglars
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