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Property Marking

Security marking is an inexpensive and simple way of making your possessions identifiable and increases the chance of them being returned to you if stolen. The recognised method is by using your postcode, followed by your house number or the first two letters of your house name, thus linking your property directly to your address.

Marking can be done visibly be etching, engraving or stamping, invisibly be means of ultraviolet (UV) pen, when the mark is revealed only by exposure to ultraviolet light. Pens and other property marking equipment can be obtained from most DIY or hardware stores.

In addition to property marking it's also a good idea to keep a list of serial numbers such as televisions, video recorders, hi-fi equipment and cameras. Some items, such as jewellery, antiques and furniture can, in some cases, be devalued or defaced by marking, and you can still keep a record of unmarked items by photographing them individually, preferably in colour, showing makers marks or other identifying features where possible. (Back to top)

Security Devices

A house which looks occupied is less likely to attract the burglar. Leaving lights switched on is one way to create the impression that you are at home, but timing switches which turn lights on and off automatically in your absence, are even more effective. Other household electrical appliances, such as radios, hi-fi systems and televisions, can also be operated in the same way.

Time switches usually operate on a 24 hour cycle, but some can be programmed over longer periods and are therefore more suitable for extended absences, such as holidays. Sensor switches, which are activated either by light or sound, simply plug into standard lightbulb sockets, and are another useful, inexpensive alternative. (Back to top)

Intruder Alarms

In addition to the physical security of your home, you may wish to consider fitting a alarm system. There are may types available, from DIY systems costing less than £100 to the professionally-installed systems of up to £100,00 and more.

DIY systems are available at most superstores and hardware shops and should meet the requirements of British Standard 6707. Remember though that a poorly installed alarm can create problems in itself, and you should fit one yourself only if you have an electrical knowledge and practical skills to do so. Professionally installed systems are, generally speaking, more reliable and are either bells only or remote signalling. The former is probably the most popular household system. When activated, it sounds a bell to deter the burglar and attract attention. Remote signalling alarms on the other hand, pass an immediate signal to the bell or siren being delayed for a short period to enable them to attend before the burglar is alerted.

Before deciding on a alarm, ask for the advice of your local crime prevention officer, who can supply you with the names of suitable installers within your area. (Back to top)

Small Safes

Every home contains items which are irreplaceable, either for sentimental reasons, such as family heirlooms and jewellery, or alternatively, important documents such as birth certificates, passports or wills.

For items such as these a small safe can be a worthwhile investment. There are many types of wall and floor safes available for domestic use at relatively low cost. Their value lies in their reliability to be concealed, and the most obvious hiding places, such as behind pictures or curtains, should be avoided.

Floor safes probably offer more possibilities offer more possibilities of concealment, for instance under carpet or items of furniture. They can be cemented into solid floors or bolted onto joists underneath floorboards. Secure installation is essential and wherever possible professional fitting is recommended. (Back to top)

Garden

Sheds and other small buildings

Many people take a great deal of trouble securing their house and the property within it whilst at the same time leaving valuable property in a shed which is either unlocked or so old and run down as to prove no obstacle whatsoever to the thief.

Ensure that your shed is in a good condition to stand up to a security test. If not then take steps to improve it or don't leave valuable items, such as a lawnmower inside.

Fit a good lock on the shed door. A little expense can be money well spent and may help with insurance claims later if the worst does happen. The fittings should be bolted through the door of the shed and reinforced at the back with a steel plate. The hasp should have concealed screws. The padlock itself should be not less than 2.5ins in width and made of hardened steel. The lock should have no less than 5 pins. A closed-shackle type will reduce the risk of the lock being forced. Any locksmith or good DIY shop will advise you on the strongest available. If you already have a small padlock, change it now - it could save you time and money in the future.

Fit any windows with a grille fixed to steel plates inside the shed. Remember, it is no good securing the door if the windows are an easy target . At the very least consider fitting reinforced glass and a good lock if the window opens.

When you have satisfied yourself that your building is secure then USE the locks at all times. It only takes a minute to remove property. Not bothering to lock up whilst you go into the house to make a cup of tea may mean that you return to an empty shed.

Much of this advice should also be applied to a garage if you have one. (Back to top)

Tools and furniture

Gardening tools and furniture are not cheap, what's more they are very saleable items for the thief. don't make it easy to steal them and remember that tools stolen from your shed could be used to burgle your house.

Postcode all property such as lawnmowers, hedge trimmers and garden furniture. Postcoding can be done with ultraviolet marker pens, engraving, stamping or even paint. Property marking may not stop the item being taken, but it could dissuade a thief if you advertise the fact that your property is coded and it will certainly improve the chances of tracing the items and perhaps catching the thief. Take photographs of any valuable garden ornaments. If they are stolen, Police can circulate the photo to dealers who can then look out for your property.

Never leave items unattended, especially valuable ones, even if you are just popping into the house - remember you may be gone for a minute but they may be gone forever. If you leave items such as pedal cycles in your garage or shed, ensure that they are postcoded and chain them to the superstructure of the building. (Back to top)

Outdoors

Not only should your property be secure but you can also make it make it difficult for the thief to get to it.

Install security lights to illuminate your garden. Sensors can switch lights on when a moving body is detected. A low cost alternative are lights fitted with sodium tubes which come on when it gets dark and turn themselves off when it gets light - they cost less than 1p a night to run! This is especially important in dark areas of the garden. don't under-estimate the effect of good lighting as a crime prevention measure.

Keep shrubs, hedges and large plants cut back - they can provide a screen for thieves to work behind. Check your boundary fences, walls and gates. Keep them in good repair as they do provide a useful barrier to the would-be-thief. The harder it is for him to get in, the more suspicious his actions look to others. Get your neighbours to always keep an eye on your garden at all times of the day and night. You can do the same for them. Report anything suspicious to the Police as soon as possible. Remember - it's not being nosy, it's being sensible. (Back to top)

Allotments

Allotments are harder to protect but much of the above advice can be applied to them. Get to know your neighbours on the allotment - if they you they are more likely to be suspicious if someone else is in your plot. Remember - don't leave expensive equipment on your site if you can avoid it. (Back to top)

Plants, trees and lawns

These are difficult to protect, but again the watchful eyes of neighbours can be a big help. Tell them not to be fooled by a story if someone is seen digging in your garden - criminals can be very plausible. Call the Police to check them out. 

Further tips and advice

Crime Prevention information - www.met.police.uk
Booklets are available on 'Beat the Burglar', 'Coded for Keeps', 'Peace of mind whilst you are away' from :
The crime prevention officer at your local police station or the Home Office, Communication Directorate, Room 151, 50 Queens Anne's Gate, London, SW1H 9AT (Back to top)