Quality locks on doors and windows deter most burglars. By fitting locks (and also monitored alarms and security lighting) you can discourage the casual, amateur thief looking for an easy opportunity.
  

Fit window locks to prevent easy entry. Remember breaking glass makes noise and attracts attention.

Deadlock accessible windows to ensure that they cannot be opened easily even after glass is broken.

Use epoxy resin, glue glass louvre slats in place or fix security bars across louvre windows.

Double deadlock front doors to prevent the door being opened and possessions removed once the burglar is inside your home.

Fit patiobolts or deadlocks to sliding and hinged doors.

Improve the security of your ranch-slider;
- Cut a piece of dowel to fit into the track behind the sliding door – put this in when the door is not in use.
-Also check the track clearance to ensure that the doors couldn’t be lifted out of their frames

Double check the visibility of your home from the street. Are entry points such as doors and windows visible? Ensure the surrounding trees and bushes are trimmed so they can be seen.

Check your exterior lighting at night-time for the same reason. Motion sensor lights situated well can light up popular entry points such as back stairs and windows.

Also remember that security lights and/or exterior lighting will provide you and your family with visibility and added security when you return home at night – check that paths and stairs leading to your main access points are well lit.

Security cameras can have a dual benefit, allowing you to see what is going on in your back garden from inside – like watching the kids on the swings – but also allowing you to see who’s come to the front or back door before opening it.

A cheaper alternative is a peephole in your door. Always establish who the person outside is before opening the door. A sturdy chain then allows you to open the door just a small amount if you want to converse with a stranger without opening the door entirely.

Burglaries of outdoor items are also growing. A shed or large plastic storage bin with a good lock is one way to store your outdoor items more securely. You could also consider chaining and padlocking an item like a BBQ to a secure point. In some neighbourhoods burglars have targeted expensive plants in expensive pots – consider putting these in spots where they are harder to manoeuvre and lit by a security light.

Join your local neighbourhood watch group.