A very common method of entry is whereby offenders will smash a window or a pane of glass close to the door lock, reach in and open the front or rear door from the inside.
This is made possible if a key has been left in the back of the door, the door only has a simple latch lock and no deadlock, or if a deadlock exists but is not used.
A few things to remember
- Always remove the key from the back of the door.
- Avoid leaving keys where they can be seen or are within reach of a window .
- Replace single paned glass with toughened glass.
- Offenders like to work in the dark so if door ways are illuminated either with movement sensitive lighting or dusk to dawn lighting, an offender may think breaking in is too risky.
- If you have a deadlock, engage it. It is recommended as a minimum to install a 5 lever mortise lock. View the secured by design Website for a list of approved companies which supply mortise locks.
- Keep valuables out of view with the use of blinds and curtains. If an offender can see property they will know any effort they make to break in, may be worth the effort.
- Offenders will tend to avoid buildings which are alarmed. You can find more about alarm on the Beating Burglaries page.