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Home security

Introduction

For a relatively small outlay you could make your home more secure and buy piece of mind into the bargain. Reduce the risk of burglary happening to you by taking some simple precautions.

• Improve the security of your doors and windows.
• Remember to remove keys from locked windows and keep them out of sight.
• Exterior doors front and back should be kept in good condition and if possible be fitted with a five-lever mortice deadlock and bolts at the top and the bottom.
• Easily accessible upstairs windows, every downstairs window and those which can’t be seen from the street, should be fitted with key operated window locks.
• High priced items such as jewellery, car keys and credit cards should be kept out of sight – do not tempt the thief.
• Sheds and garages are full of tools ideal for breaking into the rest of the house – never leave a garage or garden shed unlocked.
• Most burglaries happen when the house or flat is empty – look in when you’re out.
• Easily visible locks may deter some thieves as they force the thief to break the glass and risk attracting attention.
• Spare keys should never be left in a convenient hiding place such as under a doormat or in a flowerpot – a thief will look there first.

Consider looking at your house through the burglar’s eyes, are there places where they could break in unseen?

Foliage needs to be cut back to remove hiding places. Light up your house during the night. Fit low energy lights around your home. Thieves don’t like being seen and this will put offenders off .

Use time switches to turn lights on inside your home when you are out.

For further information contact your local Crime Reduction Officer on 0845 6060606.

The Community Safety Team wish to thank West Yorkshire Police| for allowing them to give you this advice and guidance, which we feel will make you less vulnerable, allay your fears about crime, and reduce your chance of being a victim of crime.

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