A-Z of DIY & Building Guides Safe As Houses?

Date Published:

21/05/2008

When it comes to home improvement, it's easy to overlook home security. Louise Matthews took a stroll with PC Scott McGregor through some typical streets.

Introduction

Although recorded home burglaries dropped by 2% last year, there were still nearly 300,000 in England and Wales alone. Yet making even simple changes - thought of roses? - can dramatically reduce your risk.

In any street it's easy to spot the vulnerable properties - if, like a burglar, you know what to look for. Or if, like PC Scott McGregor, you offer crime prevention advice based on years of investigating and dealing with the upsetting aftermath.

Terraced houses, bungalows, detached, old and new builds - they can all have their security strengths and weaknesses. The good news is every home owner can make simple improvements, and you can often spot the difference in similar houses side by side.

There is good, specific advice in the Government's updated Guide to Home Security, but it helps to see some real-life examples. We went to a Dorset town, but these examples could be 'Anytown'.

The trick is to look carefully at your property through fresh eyes, noting deterrents and areas which need improving. Remember, burglars can get through any opening that a human head can. And mark, visibly or otherwise, property including tools, with your postcode.