Home Security
"Most of us have the misconception that the average burglar is a 'master criminal' who watches your movements for days and plans his burglary meticulously. In reality a burglar is usually a person looking for an easy way into your home to steal your property without being observed or disturbed."
If positive action is taken you can substantially reduce the chance of your home being the subject of a burglary. The more you can do to dissuade a prospective thief - the safer you are.
Some criminals have realised that they don't have to go to all the trouble of breaking into your house if they can simply get you to invite them in! Most people assume that bogus officials only prey on the old and vulnerable but anyone can become a victim, and all of us can take simple steps to prevent the crime.
First let us reassure you. You've probably had nothing but genuine callers at the front door, but it's worth taking a few seconds to check each caller at the door properly. Bogus callers come in many guises. Here are just a few.
The Bogus Workman
The bogus workman will use his silvery tongue and sales patter to get you to employ him immediately at a 'never to be repeated' price to replace your fascias, fix your guttering or clean your drains. Often they will be driving vans with flashy graphics on the sides promising 'life time guarantees'. Anyone can buy a van. Don't trust them!
Take our advice. If you really need to have any building work done it makes good sense to get several written quotes from trustworthy and established firms. Then you can decide who is best.
Bogus Officials
These are the criminals who pretend to be from the Water Board or the Gas and Electricity Board. Don’t trust them! Officials from the Water Board never need to come into your home to test water pressure or repair a leak, even in an emergency. If for some unforeseen reason they do need access they will always send a letter to make an appointment.
Genuine callers want you to check their identity before you let them in so examine their identity cards carefully and if you are in any doubt ring up and check that they are genuine.
Alternatively, if you have difficulty in reading identity cards ring the number given on your bills and ask to join the password scheme. Every time a meter reader calls they will identify themselves by the password you have given. The scheme is free and could save you from a very unpleasant visitor.
Remember the following advice:
Look before you open - Always look to see who is at the door before you open it.
Door Viewer - If you don’t have a glass door fit a spy hole door viewer. Another alternative is to get into the habit of always looking through a window near the door to see who is calling.
Outside light - An outside light over your door will enable you to see a caller in the dark. Position the light so it lights up the caller's face.
Door Chain - If you need to open the door to strangers use a door chain or similar device. Remember to only use the door chain when answering the door as it could impede your exit in case of emergency and another's entry if you were ill or needed help.
Check identity cards thoroughly.
Don’t let people in until you are completely satisfied that you know who they are and what they want. Check them out!!
If you're unhappy keep the door locked until you can verify their story or ask them to come back later.
If you let them in accompany them at all times.
Never part with money or anything else, whatever they say.
Don't let callers pressurise you into letting them in, ever!
If in doubt, keep them out!!
If you are suspicious - Call the Police!
