Simply by following some basic and cost effective security measures you could protect your home,in fact it could save you a fortune.In a matter of minutes, the time it could take you to read this article, there will have been five burglaries
In nearly two thirds of cases break-ins are through the doors of a property,followed by the windows (32%)Home security alarm systems with twenty four hour alarm monitoring, security cameras and quality security locks fitted are all part of the overall security measures offering the best scenario.However there are some basic crime preventative measures you can take that are either free or very cost effective.
Easy crime prevention includes checking that external doors are locked especially at night, fit a suitable door viewer and install a chain and bolt.Put a deadbolt on any cellar or basement doors from the inside if possible or a hasp and good strong padlock on the outside.Shut all the windows as well as the small ones when you go out.Dont leave handbags or wallets lying out where someone could quickly snatch them.Make sure that any gardening equipment and ladders are locked away to prevent them being used to help a burglar break-in.It is not a good idea to leave a spare key under the doormat or a plant pot, leave a spare key with a trusted friend or neighbour.
Security lights are very cheap and generally come supplied with motion detectors built-in, these light up whenever someone approaches them.Thieves hate to be noticed and the last thing they want is to be seenSecurity lighting is also a good safety feature to help provide safer access to your door.
A low cost motion detector operated by batteries does not cost much and could sound an alarm to alert you and hopefully frighten any intruder away , the last thing they want is to be discovered. Think about where you place the motion detectors if you have pets or children that could set them off.
Join or start a neighbourhood watch scheme in your area. Your local Police department should be able to give you help and advice to set one up and run it.
If you are going out at night close the curtains or blinds and leave a radio playing to give the appearance that someone is still in.
Fit security window locks, especially to all lower ground windows and dont leave the key in the window when you go out. Security window locks are cheap and easy to fit and are generally available at most DIY stores.
Mark your property with your postal or zip code using a (UV) security pen or engraving and make then less attractive to steal. (It is often harder for them to sell property that has been marked with the true owners post, zip code or details.| Its harder to sell stolen property that has been marked with the real owners zip, post code or details}
Many people do not realise that over the years their property is worth far more than they think. How much does a CD or a DVD cost? Then multiply it by the number you have. Even the modest CD or DVD collection could be expensive to replace and in some cases could be impossible if your favourite CD is not longer available to order. Think about any Jewellery, DVD players, Televisions, Hi-fi, Cameras and video cameras you may have, what would it cost to replace all of these items? You might have insurance but that does not help you replace items of a sentimental value or the now deleted CD or DVD. Its your property and by taking a few simple precautions you could prevent it becoming someone elses!
Its not just the fact that someone has taken your possessions, they have been in your home and through your personal property. Then you have to deal with the Police to report the crime and then the insurance company who want receipts and lots of information. The last thing you want is to come face to face with a burglar where anything could happen.
These measures should be in conjunction with other security measures like a home security alarm, high security window locks, security cameras (CCTV) it all helps to prevent your home from being the next crime scene
Most burglaries are opportunist and if you dont give them the opportunity you will save yourself a lot of stress and hassle.
Frank Landers is a freelance journalist and award winning photographer, He has also worked as a Travel and Security adviser (Not allowed to say who for) and is currently retained as a security adviser for Security in the Home
