Secured By Design
Secured by Design is the official UK Police initiative supporting effective crime prevention and security standards for a large range of products.
In order to help you improve the security at home, we have drawn up a list of recommendations and precautions. If you take the time to assess the security of your home, follow the advice provided and take positive action, you will greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
Most domestic burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves, who pick a home that looks unoccupied, has little or no obvious security, and where they think they will not be seen.
Doors
If your front and back doors are not secure, neither is your home. Two thirds of burglars gain entry through a door.
Make sure the doors and frames are strong and in good condition. Doors should be made of solid core construction, at least 44mm thick and fitted with‘high security’ deadlocks that carry the British Standard BS3621.
A high security lock is devalued if the door or frame is weak. Consider installing door sets (including door, frame, locks and hinges) that are certified to British Standard (BS) PAS 24-1 and are of enhanced security. For a comprehensive list of SBD approved manufacturers using a range of materials, please visit www.securedbydesign.com
Remember to fit all security devices with strong screws or bolts and to manufacturer’s instructions.
Identify Callers
If you don’t have a window in the door or some other way of checking who’s calling, fit a door viewer, vision panel or spy hole and be sure to use it. Ask for a proof of identity; officials will not mind you calling their office for confirmation and if there is any doubt, keep them out.
Sliding Patio Doors
If purchasing sliding patio doors, ensure the sliding door is on the inside, has anti-lift devices and locks fitted to the top and bottom or a multi-locking system. Ask the supplier for their high-security specification. If the sliding door is on the outside, it may be easily removed from its track unless anti-lift blocks and additional top and bottom locks are fitted.
Letterboxes
Ensure that letterboxes are positioned at least 16” (40cm) away from locks. Fitting a letterbox restrictor and keeping keys out of easy reach will prevent burglars reaching through or ‘fishing’for keys.
Door chains
Be aware that whilst door chains allow you to talk to callers, they don’t necessarily prevent burglaries.
Door locks
Doors are safest if fitted with a BS: 3621 5-lever mortise deadlock one-third of the way to the bottom of the door, and a BS:3621 rim latch lock one-third of the way to the top.
If fitting new locks to UPVC doors check with the supplier/manufacturer that it will not affect any warranty. Multi-point locking involves several hooks or bolts holding the door into the frame. The lock cylinders which can be replaced should be tested to BS EN 1303 Grade 3.
Windows
Secure all your windows – a third of burglars get in through a window.
Ground floor windows
• All ground floor and easy to reach windows should be fitted and locked with keys.
• Do not fit locks to windows designated for escape in case of fire – fit laminated glass.
• Remember to remove keys from locked windows and to keep them out of sight in a safe place.
Laminated Glass
Where possible, laminated glass should be used for all windows that are used as fire escape, where locks cannot be fitted or within easy reach of door locks.
Replacement Windows
If you are replacing windows, install those that are certified to British Standard BS:7950 and consider using laminated glass, in vulnerable areas, as it is much harder to break.