The number one burglary hotspot for thethird year in a row is Nottingham. Nottingham is unfortunately what seems to be “Burglary Capital” with over 60% above the average burglary rate.

London and Bristol followed closely by having over 50% above the average rate.

Also named in the top 10 hotspots for burglary were Stockport, Leeds, Manchester, Hull, Cambridge, Sheffield and Reading.

Larger towns and cities tend to witness a greater number of burglaries and thefts than smaller towns with those living in densely populated areas needing to be extra vigilant regarding their home security.With the recession currently hitting the country , the crime rates are expected to rise even further.

There are however many things we can do to prevent becoming victims. We should all ensure that we have British Standard Insurance Approved locks fitted to all external doors to our properties, whether this is just the front door or maybe the front, back and side doors. Not only will these locks make a burglars’ job much more difficult, but insurance will also be valid if any claim were to be made. Making a claim through the insurance to find that your policy is actually void as your locks are not British Standard could be devastating news for anyone!

Did you know…

The majority of insurance companies used to accept 5 Lever Mortice Chubb locks as adequate security, but now most insurance companies will insist on locks being to BS3621 standard. Are yours?

Many of us have UPVC doors which are great, possibly we think far better than a wooden door and how on earth could a burglar get in? Well, UPVC doors do unfortunately have a weakness too. It is not uncommon for UPVC doors, or any other door that has a euro or oval cylinder, to be victims of “snapping”. The cylinders in these doors can actually be snapped in half and gaining access is then extremely hassle free!

Another method burglars will tend to use which is on the rise is “bumping”. This is where a specially made cut down key will bump open the cylinder. A quick and easy way for a burglar to gain access!

And BE AWARE ...Bumping is on the increase!

It´s actually very hard to determine if your house has been broken into via this method because of the lack of evidence - no noticeable damage and yet your possessions are still gone. Then of course you get the problems with the insurance companies refusing to payout because there is no evidence of forced entry.

Another alarming thing regarding this practice is that the tool required is ridiculously easy to get hold of as it is in fact, readably available on the internet. Add to this that the “Bumping” technique can be learned in just a few hours and it’s enough to worry even the most hardened homeowner!

So what can be done?...

Upgrading your cylinder is a simple and quick job but will prove 100% effective against the methods outlined above. Cylinders can be changed to “bump resistant”, “snap resistant” and also “restricted profile” – where the only way to acquire new keys to the cylinder would be from the original supplier.

Not only should we look at how secure our doors are, we need to remember the windows too! Burglars aren’t too fussy about how they enter a property, a window is just as good to them and if you do not have window locks it can be a bit of an open invitation.

Window locks are not costly and will provide great security for your home. “Key Operated” bolts and “sash jammers” can also be fitted to patio doors for extra security. If you were to take a look, you’d be shocked at how many French doors (even the UPVC ones!) have only the one key and lock in the middle of the door, leaving the tops and bottoms easy to insert tools and lever open. Fitting a sash jammer or bolt would prevent a burglar being able to do this.

Keytek^® has many years of experience and expertise, advising, recommending and actioning procedures to help households and businesses ensure they security is robust and up to the required standards.

These are such simple and effective ways to protect your homes and valuable possessions. Act now and be safe and secure. Don’t let yourself become a victim.

If you have any concerns whatsoever with regards the security of your property, Keytek^® can help….call us on 0800 021 3137