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Are there any good security tips?
Insurance
companies will cut the cost of your premiums if you improve the
security of your home. Some insurance companies will even refuse
to insure you at all if the security levels at your property are
not up to a certain standard.
But it’s not just the insurance
companies who need your home to be safe and secure. It is in your
interests as well. A burglary of your home can be quite psychologically
disturbing in itself, and those effects can last a long time. You
really do want your home to be as safe as possible. Here are some
tips to make that so.
Outside doors are the most important security concern. Your doors
should be fitted with mortise deadlocks up to at least the BS3621
standard. These can only possibly be opened by a key, rather than
an implement such as a plastic card or by smashing a window and
opening the door.
If you usually lock a door from the inside, you should also fit
it with bolts. The door itself and the frame should be as strong
and safe as possible. Patio doors should be fitted with extra security
locks, so that the slicing frame can’t be lifted of its tracks.
Double doors should be fitted with top and bottom bolts as well
as these locks. The bolts should have removable keys.
Windows should be fitted with key operated locks, particularly
if they can be accessed easily.
As far as keys are concerned, don’t leave them in locks,
and don’t leave spare keys outside the house in secret hiding
places. Try leaving a key with a trusted neighbour if you are worried
about locking yourself out.
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Don’t make it obvious that you are going away or are away.
Avoid giveaways by having a dark house with open curtains. Cancel
milk and newspapers while you are away.
Make an inventory with details of your valuable possessions and
their serial numbers, make and model numbers. You can buy a property
marking kit to write the number of your house and postcode. Take
photos as an extra precaution.
Don’t open your door to someone you don’t recognise.
Use a door chain if you can, as you can look at the person and be
passed identity documents without exposing yourself. Ask for proof
of identity and call their head office if you are unsure.
Your small possessions can be stored in a safe. Make sure it is
a good make though by asking your insurance company for a recommendation.
Burglar alarms are an added security measure, but you should again
get the advice of your insurance
company to ensure it conforms to safety standards.
Finally, join a local neighbourhood watch scheme, or create one
if there isn’t one there.
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