Protect your home with secure window locks
Home security is often overlooked, particularly if we feel comfortable in our homes. It’s really easy to become complacent. That’s why we feel it’s important to raise awareness; nobody is ever truly immune to the risk of burglary.
Aside from an open window, the most common method of entry is by bumping or snapping locks. Many people forget the basics, or think that the old, decaying windows they have in place are sufficient.
Are you absolutely certain that your windows are safe and secure?
The importance of home security
With 62% of home break-ins taking place at night though, this is when we want to know we can go to bed knowing we are safe. But are we?
In February 2015 there were 33,043 burglaries in England and Wales. In March 2015, the figure rose to 35,495. As summer approaches and windows are left open, this number is set to rise further.
Insurance companies specifically ask for details of the locks you have. Without those details, your policy will be invalid, or it won’t be issued at all.
In the case of a burglary, if you haven’t given the correct information – perhaps because you guessed – you could be left seriously out of pocket.
Ensure your windows and doors deter unwanted visitors
Locks for doors and windows should comply with British standards for quality and safety. If you have a uPVC or composite door, it will more than likely have a multipoint locking system. If it seems that the lock is susceptible to snapping to gain entry then an upgrade is needed urgently. Otherwise, anyone could gain entry by following instructions posted on the web.
Even if you’ve had new doors installed recently, there’s no guarantee the lock has the necessary level of security.
For timber doors, look to see if the lock meets the BS3621 standard. This will be for external doors that have a mortice lock, and perhaps also a night latch or Yale lock. Look for the kitemark symbol on the lock; if you can’t see one, it’s time for an upgrade. With 73% of burglars entering through a door, this is an inspection to carry out today.
With regards to windows, each should have at least one suitable key operated lock. Bars and grilles are an excellent deterrent so if you have an area where you feel there’s a vulnerability, this is an option. However, you must take care to ensure occupants can exit easily in a fire.
Modern keys can’t be copied without proof of ownership. Some come with a card that must be presented to the locksmith when new ones are cut.
Who to talk to
Carry out an inspection of the doors and windows in your home. If they don’t come up to scratch, it’s time to talk to Hamilton Windows. Our state of the art locking systems will keep you secure, day or night.
