- A deadlock is one of the best forms of Security. Always choose a double cylinder deadlock which may be locked from the inside and outside. This will ensure that once you have locked the door with a key it may not be opened from either side without the key.
- Sliding doors are the favorite entry point for thieves. The most common is to force the door to jump out of its track by lifting. The glass is rarely broken, and a good form of protection is patio bolts. Patio bolts should not be relied upon by them selves, but used in conjunction with a deadlocking sliding door lock.
- Your entry doors (front and back) are your first line of defence. These external doors should be made of a solid core or solid timber. A hollow core door may be opened as easily as a good kick.
- Never keep your home address on your key ring.
- Make sure all your valuables are stored in a safe place. Put any valuables in a safe.
- Never leave keys under the mats, pots, shoes, etc.
- Lock away any tools & ladders that a thief may use to break into your home.
- Keep your house well lit. Install movement-activated sensor lights. And trim trees and shrubs, especially those close to windows and doors that provide cover for intruders as they try to break in.
- Don't leave the box of your new TV or computer outside the house. Cut boxes into pieces to recycle. By doing this, a thief does not know what possessions you have
- Many burglars are put off by a barking dog; although a dog in the backyard might not stop them breaking through a front door or window if the animal doesn't bark too much and attract attention. Even if you don't own a dog, think about putting a 'Beware of the dog' sign on your gate.
Security Tips for when you'r away from your home
- Before going away mow your lawn and trim your shrubs, these are great hiding places.
- Have a neighbour park their car in your driveway to give the 'at home' impression.
- Ask a neighbour to put out your bins (even if they're empty) and bring them in again.
- Install Timer lights in a front living room or rear lounge room to give the impression 'someone is home'.
- Hold all you mail at the local Post Office & also arrange for a neighbour to collect any junk mail that may be put in.
- Cancel newspaper deliveries, milk man or any other house calls.
- Arrange a house sitter to live in your home if you'll be away for an extended period.