* Government statistics have shown that around 60% of burglaries carried out on homes fitted with burglar alarms are unsuccessful. This suggests that burglar alarms are a useful deterrent for prospective criminals, but before you rush out and buy a brand new security system follow a few of our tips on security devices for your home.
The British Security Industry Association suggests that householders use a professional alarm installation company registered with a police recognised "alarm inspectorate" - so ask to see your security company's registration documents, and look for the following accreditation:
NSI (National Security Inspectorate)
NACOSS (National Approval Council for Security Systems)
ICON (an approval scheme run by NSI)
SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board)
Only speak to installers that offer you a free survey and written quotation without obligation, and turn away companies that try to shock you with stories or statistics about burglary. Burglaries are less common than most people think and violent attacks on people in their homes are extremely rare. You should consider reporting any firms that use shock tactics to your local police or trading standards.
* source- BBC website.
- Ensure your doors have adequate locks - protect doors with dead bolt locks. Statistics show that 80% of all break-ins are through a door.
- Secure all your sliding glass doors with a metal bar or wooden dowel placed in the door track.
- Close and lock your doors and windows - even if you are only going out for a short time.
- Don't leave valuables in sight through windows where burglars can see them.
- Don't leave keys in their locks - ensure they are put away, even if you are at home.
- Ensure that all ground and basement windows are fitted with locks.
- Use a security marker pen to mark your postcode on your property - this will enable the police to return any stolen property to you. Make an inventory and keep the list in a safe place.
- Light up inside your home - ensure that you have appropriate lighting. This is one of the most cost-effective deterrents to burglary as it gives the impression that a home is occupied.
- Invest in a monitored home security system - alarm systems are an effective deterrent.
- Security Systems provide peace of mind through 24-hour monitoring and can contact the Police or Fire Brigade where appropriate
