Domestic Burglary

Reducing the fear and risk of burglary is a task for the police and the community working together.  In recent years there has been a significant reduction in the number of reported incidents.  However we must not become complacent.  To make Portsmouth an even safer city to live in we need people who live, work or visit here to play their part in preventing/reducing this type of crime.

For most people the risk of being the victim of a burglary is low but please remembers that burglaries are more often than not the work of opportunists and reducing the opportunities can make a real difference.

Please take a walk around your home and see if there is anything further you can do to target harden the property.  The following may assist you:

Securing your home

Doors

Mortice deadlock : Fit a five-lever mortice deadlock about a third of the way up the door.  Look for one kitemarked to at least BS3621

A deadlock can only be opened with a key, so a thief cannot smash a nearby panel to open the door from the inside.  If a burglar does get into your house they cannot carry your property out through the door.

Hinges: heck that your door hinges are sturdy and secure with long screws.  For added security fit hinge bolts.  These are inexpensive and help to reinforce the hinge side of the door against the use of force.

Letterboxes: Never hang a spare key inside it.  Consider fitting a letterbox cage which prevents thieves from putting their hand or an instrument through and opening the locks.

Door chains: These help you speak to people at the door without letting them in.  It should be used every time that you open the door.

Door viewer: Lets you identify the caller before opening the door

Patio doors: Get specialist guidance on fitting locks.  They should be fitted top and bottom unless already fitted with a system.

Windows

Inexpensive key operated locks can be purchased through any good Hardware, D.I.Y.  or Security outlet.  If you are a tenant you may be able to get your landlord or council to pay to get them fitted.

A lock forces a burglar to break glass and risk attracting attention.

Consider installing laminated glass as it is more difficult to break.

Louvre windows are a particular problem in Portsmouth.  If they cannot be replaced consider using an epoxy resin to secure each individual pane.

Lighting

Good lighting can deter a thief.  Some exterior lights have an infra-red sensor that switches on for a few moments when it detects movement.  Lights can also be fitted with a sensor that turns them on automatically as darkness falls.

Time switches can be used to operate lights and other appliances internally.

Burglar Alarms

Quality fitted alarms will certainly be a deterrent to most burglars.  There are numerous companies offering a range of services but we would recommend that you obtain at least three quotes before going ahead with any work.  Your insurance company may  require certain specifications so always consult them.  Any system fitted should meet BS4737

WITH ALL SECURITY, CONSIDERATION MUST BE GIVEN TO THE RISK OF FIRE AND MEANS OF ESCAPE.  ALWAYS FIT SMOKE DETECTORS CONFORMING TO BS5446