Burglary Reduction Advice

Don’t make your home an easy target for burglars

Many burglaries are crimes of opportunity. A burglar only needs to spot an open window, unlocked side gate or dodgy alarm to make their move. Think about it – if you know your home security looks poor, so will a thief. Statistics show that properties with little security are 15 times more likely to be burgled than those with good security.

The good news is that it doesn’t take much to secure your house – and put off thieves.

Safety checklist | Fire safety |
Computers: three must do’s | Extra precautions for older people | Bogus callers | Home security tips

Safety checklist

• I’ve checked that all the doors and windows are locked – even if I’m just popping out for a minute.
• I’ve fitted deadlocks to all outside doors. (Burglars hate them because you need a key to open them from the inside as well as the outside.)
• I’ve made sure the deadlock key isn’t in an obvious place.
• I’ve fitted key-operated locks to all the windows. (Burglars don’t like having to break glass because of the noise it makes and the risk of leaving forensic evidence.)
• I’ve installed a visible burglar alarm, and turned it on!
• My spare keys are not hidden outside, or in the garage or shed. (Burglars always look there!)
• I’ve left the lights and the radio on a timer for the evening (as little as £2 each from DIY shops) so that it looks like I’m in.
• Thieves can’t get into the garden - there’s a good fence, the side gate is padlocked (and it will take more than a good kick to get through it), and the shed is locked.
• I’ve made sure the TV, video and other valuables can’t be seen from the window.
• There isn’t any cash lying around.
• It’s dark outside so I’ve closed the curtains and left a light on while I’m out.

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Fire safety

Make sure your new security measures (such as window locks) don’t block your escape route – and that you can get out of the house as quickly as possible. Fit a smoke alarm and test it regularly. Make sure you have an escape plan and that everyone in your household knows it.

Computers: three must do’s

Thieves love computers. As well as the money they might get from selling them, computers often contain personal information (such as bank details) that criminals can use to commit fraud. Following these steps will make your computer more secure.

Keep it hidden

Lock your computer in a cabinet or cupboard when you’re not using it. Use security screws and bolts to make it harder for thieves to open the casing to steal parts (but check with the manufacturer that this does not affect any guarantee first). If you need to carry a laptop around with you, don’t draw attention to it. Put it in a rucksack rather than a computer case.

Make sure your private information stays private

Keep PINs, passwords and personal financial information safe. Don’t send your bank details by e-mail or store them on your computer.

Be secure

Back up all your work regularly and always keep disks separate from your computer so that you have proof of copyright and a copy of your files. If you’re ordering goods over the internet, make sure the company has a secure server. (You will know the site is secure if you see a padlock at the bottom right of the screen.)

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Extra precautions for older people

Older people may feel more vulnerable to some crimes, but they are actually less likely to become victims. A few simple steps can also help increase your safety even further.

• Think about getting a personal alarm to use if you trip or fall at home.
• Don’t keep large amounts of cash at home – use a bank account instead.
• Look after your pension book carefully.
• Always follow the advice below on bogus callers.

Many councils have security schemes that are aimed at older or more vulnerable people. You could ask them for advice.

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Bogus callers

Most people who come to your door will be genuine callers. But it’s best to make sure.

• Fitting a door chain or spyhole will help you check who the caller is – your landlord or council may be able to help with this.
• Lock, stop, chain, check.
• Keep your doors and windows locked.
• Before opening the door, stop. Are you expecting anyone? Are the back door and windows locked so no-one can sneak in?
• Put the door chain on.
• Check the caller’s identity. Genuine callers will not mind waiting outside while you contact their company. Find the phone number in the phone book, or look on your last bill (if the caller says they are from the gas, electricity or water company, for example). Most companies now have a password scheme. If you are in any doubt, don’t let them in. Ask them to make an appointment to come back at another time.
• If you let someone into your home, even if it is someone you know, and you start to feel uncomfortable, make excuses and leave. Go to a neighbour’s house, or ask a friend to come back with you.

For more information, phone the Age Concern information line free on 0800 00 99 66 or visit www.ageconcern.org.uk

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Home security tips

• Some burglars are looking for your car keys so they can steal your car. Make it hard for thieves. Don’t leave car keys near a door or window.
• Visible burglar alarms and good outside lighting put burglars off. But make sure that your security lights don’t disturb your neighbours, and that your alarm turns off after 20 minutes at the most (if it goes off when you’re not there).
• Getting insurance is cheaper than paying out a small fortune to replace your stolen belongings. At least get cover for your most valuable possessions such as your computer, TV and jewellery. Remember: if you don’t lock your house, your insurance may not cover you.
• Mark important and expensive possessions (such as your computer or DVD player) with your postcode and house number using special security markers. Keep a record of the make, model and serial numbers of all your electrical equipment for reference too. If the police recover them after a burglary, this record will be proof that they are stolen goods – and that they are yours.

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