Hints & Tips

Installing Security at Your Home or Business

Installing security measures at your home or business is crucial for protecting against burglary and theft. Even a basic level of security can significantly reduce the risk of an intruder entering your property when unattended.

At a minimum, you should have:

• Key-operated two-cylinder deadlocks fitted to all external hinged doors.
• Key-operated locks or patio bolts fitted to all external sliding doors.

Additionally, at least one of the following:

• Key-operated single-cylinder window locks fitted to all accessible windows.
• Security grills or security screens fitted to all accessible windows.
• A local burglar alarm system installed in the property.

In addition to these measures, consider these easy steps to enhance your home’s safety:

• Always lock all outside doors and windows when you leave, even if only for a short time.
• Secure your external garage or garden shed with a quality key-operated lock or padlock.
• When you go out at night, leave some internal lights and a radio on.
• Trim trees and shrubs around windows to improve visibility.
• Do not hide keys outside your house.
• If you’re in the garden or watching TV, lock parts of the house you can’t keep an eye on.
• Lock away ladders, garden tools, and bicycles.
• If you have valuable items such as jewelry, documents, or cash, consider installing a safe or a burglar alarm.
• Avoid leaving notes indicating when you’ll be back.
• The most common entry points for a burglary are the garage, followed by the bedroom and kitchen.

Always ensure:

• Garage doors and windows are closed and locked when you’re in another part of the house.
• Windows and sliding doors in bedrooms and the kitchen are closed and properly secured when you’re away from home.