The majority of people assume that they will never suffer a home burglary and few people take the threat seriously enough to take precautions. Yet it is very common and can be an extremely traumatic experience, leaving many feeling thoroughly violated.
Although movies tend to portray break-ins as being daring and well planned, most are generally simple and fast, whether planned or unplanned. Unfortunately, there are plenty of seasoned thieves with the courage and audacity to enter your home, usually through five common entry points.
1. Front door
It may be hard to believe that a burglar would have the nerve to enter your home by simply walking through the front door but this is often the …show more content…
• Install a deadbolt lock – they provide extra protection.
• Fit a sturdy door rather than a cheap one.
• Use a deadbolt and/or door chain at night.
• Fit motion sensor lights to illuminate the house.
• Fit a burglar alarm ideally.
2. Back Doors or Patio Doors
The second most common entry point is the back door and is usually preferable for the burglar, generally being away from prying eyes. A back door is also more likely to be left unlocked when the owner is home. Sliding doors are particularly vulnerable because the glass can easily be smashed and their lock mechanisms are usual rudimentary. Some sliding doors can actually be opened by being lifted off of their track even when locked.
• Always lock doors.
• Install strong and good quality locks.
• Place a dowel in the tracks of sliding doors to stop them opening.
• Fit a bolt to sliding doors to prevent them being lifted off their tracks easily.
• Fit motion sensor lights.
• Install CCTV cameras.
3. Windows
Windows are often the most fragile entry point in most homes. Unfortunately, the sound of breaking glass rarely catches the attention of passers-by or neighbours. Many people ignore any sound if it only occurs once. However, a burglar doesn’t necessarily have to break a window to gain access, with many often not having decent locks or actually being latched at