Home
Security
Most
burglaries in the UK are unsuccessful thanks to the efforts
of home owners in improving their home security. Usual measures
include: door and window security, and exterior sensor lights,
interior light timers and burglar alarms.
Security Lighting
As
a deterrent for burglars the installation of lighting to the
perimeter of a property is always recommended. There are two
types of external lighting, and they should be fitted not
lower than 2.5m in height to prevent easy interference from
burglars.
Types of External Lighting
Passive
Infra Red (PIR) units. These react upon someone approaching
them, they provide instant lighting to the area, which will
surprise potential burglars and attract the attention of others.
But they can cause false alarms when triggered by animals,
traffic and weather conditions. The other type is a light
sensitive device that switches on automatically at sunset
and then off again at sunrise. This type offers a less of
a surprise than the PIR units but they do provide a good level
of lighting which may be suitable for very dark areas.
Intruder Security Alarms
Security
alarms definitely offer a deterrent and also provide a means
of alerting others in the event that they are activated. Here
are some tips if you are considering installing a security
system: Always take advice from professionals such as your
local crime prevention office or security specialist. Use
a reputable company, they should be registered with the National
Security Inspectorate (NSI) or Security Systems and Inspectorate
Board (SSAIB). Maintenance contracts usually include an yearly
inspection to check that the security system is in full working
order. In order to avoid false alarms make sure that everyone,
including the main key holders, are aware of how to enable
and disable the security system.
Window and Door Security
Lock
all your doors and windows before leaving your house and also
before going to bed. Make sure that keys are easily found.
Don't leave spare keys in obvious places because burglars
check these places first. All door locks should be changed
if your keys are lost or if you have moved into a new property.
It is best to get an internal chain and spy-hole fitted on
your main door so that you can see who you are going to let
into you house.
Locks
Locks
will be useless if your windows and doors are in bad condition
or are not securely fixed into the wall, so you should check
for any problems and arrange for repairs. Windows should have
key operated locks. Main doors should be fitted with good
quality locks. Pay special attention to outward opening doors
because these are usually hinged externally and can be forced
by removing the main pins within the hinges. To prevent removal
they should be fitted with hinge bolts to the top and bottom.
|
