A few simple precautions could easily prevent your property becoming a target for an opportunist thief. They look for easy targets and they can easily be put off by a few good quality locks on doors and windows.

Check the security of your home against our security advice:

• Fit a five-lever BS mortice lock in conjunction with a Yale type lock.
• For added personal security, fit a chain and door viewer.

• Fit a five-lever sash lock preferably working from the same key.
• As the front door, additional key-operated bolts should be fitted top and bottom of the door for extra security.

• Fit security bolts top and bottom to all wooden doors.
• Secure the first opening door with a BS mortice lock again working from the same key as the front door.
• Sliding patio doors should, where possible, have two additional locks fitted at the bottom and top of the door.

• Self-locking window locks should be fitted paying particular attention to the rear of the house and windows overlooking flat roofs and drainpipes.

• Good quality BS mortice locks should be fitted where possible and additional pad bars and padlocks to garage doors. It is here the thief will strike first to obtain tools to enter the house.