Frequent incidents of burglaries, break-ins and domestic fires have made home security an important issuefor everyone in the UK. Evermore alarming statistics are published showing stats such as over one million burglaries and attempted burglaries and over 50,000 domestic fires in Britain every year. Rather disturbingly, research indicates that for a person living in England or Wales, the risk of being a victim of burglary is one of the highest in Europe.
Homes and properties are easy targets - not only for professional thieves but also for opportunistic offenders looking for a fast return. Houses with poor or no security, low occupancy levels (such as holiday homes), single parents and senior and physically handicapped residents are the most vulnerable. Though data suggests that urban areas are more at risk than rural districts, houses in remote areas are an attractive target as without neighbours nearby there is little chance of discovery.
However, there ways to fight back and increase the security of the home.. With many different types of alarm and security systems available that are available to fit all budgets. Installing alarm systems, Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTVs), adequate lighting of the property, locks and bolts on doors and windows are the most common and effective measures. You can find some articles on the most popular of these on this site.
There are different kinds of alarm systems that usually work with motion detectors. The simple kind that only raises an alarm on any kind of intrusion, prompting a response from the owner or the neighbour is the most common kind. The other expensive option is the remote monitored alarm system that is monitored by a security company, which then takes timely steps to check into the intrusion. Some alarm systems are also equipped with CCTVs for continuous video surveillance of the property. The CCTVS are also monitored remotely either by the security company or by the owner via the Internet and mobile phones.
As over half of all burglaries take place after dusk, adequate lighting is an effective theft deterrent. Lighting can be added with either exterior lighting with passive infra red lights that activate when someone comes into its field of vision or photosensitive lights that automatically turn on at dusk and turn off at dawn is a useful security measure. Interior lighting of the house that gives the impression that the house is occupied also helps discourage potential offenders. These lights can be placed on a timer to simulate occupancy.
Walk-in thefts, where thieves get in through an open door or window are the most common kind of theft. Locks and bolts on the front and back doors and all downstairs and upstairs windows that are easily accessible are successful in discouraging most burglars, as they force the thieves to break the glass or the door and risk making a lot of noise and attracting attention.
Domestic fires also pose a serious threat to life and property. In UK there are well over a hundred domestic fires each day. Smoke alarms that set off loudly when they detect smoke are the simplest fire safety measure. Domestic Sprinklers are also a very effective measure against fires as they start the process of extinguishing the fire long before the fire engines arrive, thus minimizing the damage to a great extent. . Homes are also protected by fire alarm systems that are integrated with the home alarm systems and remotely monitored.
These security systems are now a common feature in most homes. Statistics show that in UK one home in eight has some sort of security or alarm system. With newer technology, everyday more advanced and sophisticated equipments are being introduced in the market to improve the security one can provide their homes and families.
A look at the doors and some of the security concerns.
Lots of helpful tips and information on double glazing including a look at wooden window frames