Expert home security advice

Breaks in robberies are on the up as economic struggles worsen and people leave homes

NOW we are gradually begining to venture outdoors after the strict lockdown, home security becomes more important - especially coming into the summer months, when doors and windows may be left open and high-value items left out in the garden.

So what do you need to know? Here locksmith Izzy Schulman, offers several tips...

1. Reinforce the front door

"With 74% of burglars breaking in through the front door, this should be your first port of call for home security improvements. Firstly, make sure your lock conforms to EU standards, as this certifies a minimum level of performance and is recognised by insurers if the worst happens," says Schulman.

"However, there are further precautions you can take. Fitting a spy hole to your front door deters potential intruders and fixing a latch chain will add an extra layer of security if someone tries to force their way in. Both of these are simple to fit with a drill.

"For added peace of mind, consider fitting a London bar to your door. The steel bar fits onto your door frame and around the rim lock, providing a sturdier resistance if someone tries to kick in your door. As there are so many brands and sizes of rim locks available, London bars aren't customised to your door - so you just need to measure the size of your rim lock to make sure the model you buy will fit over it. They can then be secured to your door frame using a drill and screws."

2. Safeguard windows

"Windows are another common entry point for intruders. So make sure to keep all windows locked when you're not in the room to keep watch. For added protection, installing window bars or restrictors can stop burglars gaining access. While it's possible to install window bars yourself, cable window restrictors are a more subtle alternative for the home. They can be drilled into the window frame, letting you get some fresh air without leaving you open to intruders," he says.

"Lining vulnerable windows with a shatter-proof film adds an extra protective layer. They fit effortlessly on glass panels with an adhesive layer and hold the glass in place if it smashes, keeping burglars out."

3. Invest in a home security system

"If you don't already have a home security system, consider installing one. Even the sight of one alone can prevent a burglar from chancing their luck. If you're opting for a CCTV system, consider which area it should cover," suggests Schulman.

"It's recommended to position your cameras towards valuables like cars, or to capture weak spots around the home. A larger lens has a longer zoom but is not as wide, so consider the shape of your garden or driveway.

"And these days there are plenty of economical alternatives to traditional home security systems, like smart doorbells, which record footage of your driveway. These are easier to install, with most models simply connecting to your existing doorbell system."

4. Keep existing security systems clean

"According to ex-offenders, burglars are more likely to attempt a break-in if they believe a system looks 'old and battered'," says Schulman.

"Give your smart doorbell a dusting down and wipe down your alarm box and CCTV systems with a damp cloth to leave them looking new - and show potential intruders you're hot on home security."

5. Garden watch

"Burglars aim to get in and out of each home as quickly as possible, without getting caught. They'll often scout out homes for a few days to find the easiest entry points and track the behaviour patterns of homeowners - so an overgrown garden gives them the perfect place to hide out undetected while they watch your property," says Schulman.

"Cut down overgrown trees and trim back bushes, removing any shaded or covered areas that aren't visible from your windows, where criminals can move around your property unseen. Many of us leave valuable items lying around the garden, which can also be a target for thieves," he adds. "Billions are spent each year on garden furniturea and equipment, meaning there's plenty of value to be found in unguarded gardens."

6. Keep it locked up

"Make sure all valuables, like bicycles and garden tools are stored away each night in a locked shed or garage. While a standard bolt and hardened steel padlock are difficult to break into, if you're storing highervalue items, getting a deadlock or smart lock - which requires a corresponding fob or up to a 20digit code to open - fitted to your garden gate or shed will offer greater peace of mind. However, it may require you to replace your garden gate or shed door to make sure it's compatible.

"It's also recommended to add motion-sensor lighting in the garden to scare off burglars who act under the cover of darkness. Installing a motion sensor light requires some wiring but it's a simple job if you have existing floodlights," he adds. "Then, choose the distance you want the sensor to cover depending on the size of the blind spots around your home. Plus, adding gravel or small stone features around your property may also deter intruders, with the sound of crunching stones underfoot giving them away."