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Home security

Most burglaries are committed by 'opportunist thieves'. They pick a house that looks unoccupied, has little or no obvious security and where they think they won't be seen.

It is often a spur-of-the-moment decision, made when an easy target presents itself, such as an open door or window, so it is important that you try to keep your own property as secure as you can by conducting a simple assessment or key areas.

Fences

Good fences protect a property but can also provide cover for a thief. It is recommended that you have:

  • A low hedge or open fence at the front of your home, where it improves the chances of a thief being seen by you and/or your neighbours.
  • At the rear of your house a fence 1.8m (6ft) high with an open trellis provides good security and is difficult to climb.
  • A hedge of prickly shrubs, such as Berberis, Blackthorn or Firethorn, can also be effective

Lights

Unlit areas can provide a hiding place for thieves. It is important that you site lights to ensure that there are no shadowed areas.

  • Floodlights with a sensor that switches the light on when movement is detected can be very effective. The better systems have a separate sensor positioned to cover vulnerable areas.
  • Low wattage bulbs automatically switch on at dusk and remain on until dawn. Using low wattage bulbs can reduce the cost to less than 1p per night.

Alarms

Install an alarm. Alarms should have an automatic cut-off after 20 minutes. Choose the correct alarm for you and your home. If you need advice, your local police Crime Reduction Officer can help.

For an alarm to be effective it must:

  • Meet the appropriate British standard
  • Meet any conditions set by your insurer
  • Be maintained regularly.

Remote Signalling Alarms: When this type of alarm is activated the system automatically informs a monitoring company, who notify the police.

This type of alarm is suitable for isolated buildings or where you do not wish to rely on neighbours. The monitoring company usually charges a monitoring fee.

Audible Only Alarms: This type of alarm activates a bell or siren to deter a burglar.

Merseyside Police receives thousands of alarm calls every year. Only a few are genuine. Following national guidelines, they will only attend audible alarm activations if there is an additional indication of burglary.

Doors and locks

A solid door fitted to a good quality frame provides a good level of security.

  • Before replacing locks, check the condition of the door and frame. It may be better to invest in a good quality door and frame.
  • If you need to replace a door or frame, please check with the supplier that it complies with the British Standard for security doors.
  • All eternal doors should be fitted with a five-lever mortice lock conforming to British Standards. Most good locksmiths or DIY stores can provide this kind of lock.
  • Patio doors are potentially vulnerable. There are several types of security bars that can increase your security and the advice of a locksmith should be sought.
  • If you have a door which slides on the inside of a fixed panel it can be secured very easily and effectively. Simply put a piece of wood in the full length of the floor track - on the inside.
  • If you are unsure about which security products you should use, speak to a reputable locksmith or DIY store.

Windows

Insurance companies usually require installing key operated window locks on all windows and windows that are easily accessible from the ground.

Before you fit locks, please check with your insurer for any conditions they may impose. Most window locks can be easily fitted.

(The above information is courtesy of Merseyside Police)

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