Home Security FAQ's

1.    What would be the first step to take when checking out how protected you are against any intruder?

Take a slow walk around your house and inspect all windows and doors. If you can break in anywhere without being detected, so can a burglar.

2.    How effective is using laminated glass instead of the ordinary one in windows?

Laminated glass is considerably tougher and the intruder will have to use much more force when attempting to break the glass. He runs the risk of being heard and may decide to give up the idea of breaking in.

3.    Are there inexpensive ways to burglar proof your home?

Yes, there are. Fitting your windows with window locks can be a deterrent for any burglar. If he manages to break the glass, the locks will prevent him from opening the window. He now has a choice of leaving the scene or risk being cut by the broken glass if he does decide to enter the house. Key-operated window locks are inexpensive and easily fitted. For large windows it would be a good idea to fit more than one lock. 

4.    What about small windows. Do I need to take those into consideration?

You most definitely have to consider any opening in your home. Try and fit your head through the opening. If it can go through then it needs to be locked. Most intruders can easily squeeze through an opening once their heads are in. Even skylights as well as fanlights should not be overlooked. Fitting these with window locks will ensure greater peace of mind. Once all window locks are installed, keep it locked and put the keys in a safe place.

5.    What security measures can I take to burglar-proof my front and back doors?

Most intruders enter a home through a door. This is the first place to secure if you are looking to protect yourself. A thick, solid door is ideal for the purpose. If you have a window or glass panels in your door, replace it with the laminated type.  As this is toughened glass it is not easily broken.

6.    What type of lock is ideal to use for front and any other outside doors?

A five lever mortise lock is the best choice for all outside doors. Using mortise bolts at the top and bottom of French doors will most certainly make any would-be intruder think twice before attempting to enter your home. Locks and bolts are all good and well but useless if not utilized properly. Keep doors locked at all times. Prevention has always been much better than cure.

7.    Are there any other tips regarding door security?

Yes. Fit a door viewer to your front door so that you can see who it is at the door. Those days of leaving the key under a pot plant or in the inside of the letterbox are gone. These are the first places thieves look into and many homes have been ransacked because of this tradition. 

8.    Are there any other types of locks that offer even stronger security against burglars?

Yes. The ones insurance companies are most happy with mortise deadlocks. These locks are so sturdy that they can only be opened with a key. If thieves do happen to get into your home, leaving through any door fitted with a deadlock is not an option. They would definitely not be able to carry anything out of the house – through the front door that is.

9.    What has been proven to be the most effective form of security?

It has been shown that homes fitted with a burglar alarm are reasonably safe from burglars.

10.    Are burglar alarms expensive to install and maintain?

That depends entirely on how much value you put on your property and the amount of money you can afford to pay.

11.  Are reasonably cheap alarms as effective as sophisticated, expensive ones?

The cheap ones tend to give activation problems. This is highly annoying for the security company if a false alarm is continuously set off. They will eventually get used to your cheap system and slack down when the alarm is sounded. A reliable system may cost more but will be worth it in the end.