The vast majority of burglaries are opportunistic crimes. It is relatively rare for a criminal to target a specific property. Instead, most criminals look for properties that are obviously insecure and easy to target. If you take the time to make your doors and windows secure, and do not give prospective burglars the chance to work undetected, then they will move on to a softer target. Here are some quick and simple tips to help you secure your front door.
1. Fit a Good Lock
A good lock is the single most important security measure you can have on your front door. A simple Yale lock is not good enough to keep your home secure. Invest in a Mortice deadlock. Make sure your locks comply with either BS 3621 or the European equivalent standard EN12209. In addition, make sure that the frame around the door is thick enough to support the lock, and that the door itself does not have a hollow core. The best locks in the world won’t offer much in the way of security if the frame or the door itself is thin and flimsy.
2. Add a chain
If you don’t already have a door chain fitted, install one and make a habit of using it every time you answer the door. Follow our step by step guide to fitting a security chain here for help. The chain acts as a simple barrier to prevent intruders from barging into your home when you open the door. If someone tries to enter your home by kicking the door open, the chain will slow them down slightly, and possibly attract attention from neighbours.
3. Install (and use) your peep hole
A peep hole, or door viewer, is a simple but effective defence against unwanted visitors. If you aren’t expecting a visitor and someone knocks on your door, check the peep hole before answering, and simply ignore the caller if they aren’t someone you want to deal with. Fitting a peep hole won’t stop someone trying to gain unauthorized entry, but it will help you stay safe if you’re home alone and get a late night caller. There’s a helpful guide to fitting a peephole in a wooden door on our blog.
4. Secure your letter box
Your letter box exists to let post in, but it can also be used to help a criminal gain access to your property. If you have a vulnerable lock, a burglar could insert a tool through your letter box and use it to unlatch the door. To stop this from happening, make sure that your letter box is at least 40cm away from your door lock, and that it has both an external plate and an internal cover plate. If you have a letter basket, cut the bottom off it so that post falls all the way to the floor. This will prevent thieves from taking your mail, reducing your vulnerability to identity theft.
5. Reinforce the jamb
Install a reinforced door jamb with an extra layer of steel that will help to prevent your door frame from splitting. Standard door jambs usually have just one inch or so of wood holding the door into place, and are easily kicked open. A reinforced jamb will help your door to withstand more kicks, making it a much less appealing target.
Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinshine/
