Crime Prevention Tips

Your home is five times more likely to be burgled than those with simple security measures, if no security measures are in place . Simple measures like, good window locks and strong deadlocks can make a big difference. Taking just a few steps can make a big difference in keeping your home safe from burglary. Here are a few tips:

Doors and windows

In most burglaries, the criminals broke into the house or flat through the door by forcing the lock or kicking it in. Make sure your doors are strong and secure. Consider fitting a bar for extra strength; 247 Bristol Locksmith can advise you on how best to do it.

Glass panels on doors are particularly vulnerable. If you have one on your door you could replace it with laminated glass which is stronger. Did you know? You can also buy a film in a DIY store that you can stick over the glass to make it harder to break.

Home security and DIY shops sell inexpensive, fit key-operated locks to fit most kinds of windows. Fit window locks with keys to all downstairs windows and those upstairs that are easy to reach.

Distraction burglary in Bristol

If you're not sure who is at your door, don't open it. Check the identity of the caller by calling the company they are claiming to be from whether gas, electricity, water and even police. Use the telephone numbers listed in your local directory or provided independently by your service provider. Do not use any telephone numbers provided by the caller - they may be bogus. 

Going away on holiday

Make your home look like someone is living in it:

• Use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights and radios on when it goes dark
• Cancel any newspaper or milk deliveries
• Use the Royal Mail's 'keepsafe' service - they keep your mail for up to 2 months while you're away. Mail sitting on your doorstep is a sign that you are away
• Trusted neighbours may be able to help you by collecting your post, opening and closing curtains and they could park their car on your driveway
• Avoid discussing holiday plans on public social networking sites - burglars can use any information you post on there to their advantage

Courtesy of police.uk