Residential Security

Burglary is a problem that many people fear. Companies selling alarm systems often use scare tactics as part of their ads suggesting the burglars target women and children home alone. Although this does happen occasionally, statistically it is a rare occurrence. Most burglaries occur when residents are not at home. Burglars do not wish to encounter homeowners. Those that do break into occupied homes usually have other things on their minds.

Today's message will address the first line of defense that most homeowners have to prevent residential burglary. That line of defense is your perimeter security. Securely locked doors and windows make it more difficult for a burglar to enter your home. Don't rely solely on the locks that came with the home. Often, builders, door and window manufactures, and those that do the actual installations do not have your security in mind. A cursory inspection of your doors and windows can reveal gaps in your security. Often dead bolt locks, essential for security are installed improperly. Lock keepers should have screws that extend into the stud work beyond the door frame. The bolt on the deadbolt should extend at least one inch and the hole that accepts that bolt must be at least as deep as the bolt is long. If the bolt slaps against the inside of the keeper the deadbolt may not engage and a big part of your home security is absent. Window locks are often insufficient and require upgrades. Check with your local police department and see if they provide home security inspections. Some agencies will even do upgrades for Senior Citizens at no cost.

More information on residential security can be found at: http://www.ncpc.org/topics/home-and-neighborhood-safety.

My next entry will address the issues of window locks and security in greater detail.

Frank Plunkett, MCJ
Crime Prevention Consultant