Best burglar deterrent?

ripplyuk

I've just heard that two people were burgled who only live a few miles from me. I'm in a very rural area and this is unheard of in the 13 years I've been living here. So, I'm keen to improve my security but as its a rented house, I'm reluctant to pay for anything expensive that I can't take with me if I move. I spoke to my local crime prevention officer about anti bump locks but he seemed to think it wouldn't be worth it where I live. I've key operated locks on all the windows and the pvc doors have the usual 5 point locks. Also, a 'guard dog' warning sign outside. I'm very careful about keeping doors/windows locked at all times. My bedroom is also barred shut at night using two thick wooden bars. What else would be best to do? I've seen a wireless alarm called 'Sonis'. Would this be a good idea? I'm worried a false alarm would scare me to death. I would like an alarm that only I can trigger using a panic button if I hear a burglar but I can't seem to find anything like this. Would more secure locks be better? Any ideas appreciated!

I_have_spoken

In a rental, options are limited! I'd suggest

Net curtains so peeps can't look in and see items on display
Take mobi/house keys/car keys into bedroom with you
External lights triggered by movement
Internal light in hall with random on/off after dusk
Ensure you have all serial # in case you have to make a claim
Laptop safe for docs like passport and any credit cards. Would still need to be bolted to an external wall, ideally at back of a wardrobe.

fannyadams

a dog?
something that makes a noise like gravel on the drive/on paths?

How about calling and asking for the local crime prevention officer to come and give your house the once over and tell you what to put in.

Some timers to put the lights on randomly in the house over the course of the day/night esp if you work all day. timers to put the radio on (loudly - radio 4 or a talking radio station is quite good) randomly over the course of the day...

timbo58

Darn good advice so far: to sum it up -look at your neighbours houses, make your home far more obviously secure than theirs and hide away anything valuable.

It's all about making someones else's property looking 'easier' in comparison-harsh but true.

ripplyuk

My neighbours just told me today that they're just thinking about locking their doors so I don't think they're very security conscious! My lifestyle wouldn't be fair on a dog, but I've seen fake barking dog alarms. Don't know if it would be better than the wireless alarm. Does anyone know what a 'deadbolt' means? I keep reading they're best. Would they fit on upvc doors? Or is it still easy to kick the plastic door in?

benson1980

ask the crime prevention officer what method the burglar used to enter the two houses. There should be no issues with police disclosing this information to you.
the vast majority of burglars will have a signature method of how they get in and don't deviate that much. For instance, slipping yale locks or entering via insecure doors at night when people are asleep. It sounds like you're pretty security conscious anyway but with the above info this will give you a bit of a head start.

benson1980

ripplyuk wrote: »

My neighbours just told me today that they're just thinking about locking their doors so I don't think they're very security conscious! My lifestyle wouldn't be fair on a dog, but I've seen fake barking dog alarms. Don't know if it would be better than the wireless alarm. Does anyone know what a 'deadbolt' means? I keep reading they're best. Would they fit on upvc doors? Or is it still easy to kick the plastic door in?

forced entry to upvc doors is pretty rare, as its not the weak point in most houses. It creates a fair bit of noise as you literally almost have to destroy the entire door.

timbo58

Indeed: most UPVC doors (even french windows) have multi point locking latches and decent up to date locks with yale type keys: I am quite sure any 'professional' burglar (or knowledge one anyway) would look at other windows/doors in preference to UPVC.

ripplyuk

I feel a bit better hearing that upvc doors aren't the worst. I've thought about calling the crime prevention officer out to check the house but they've already sent me an information pack and it's all about the best monitored alarms/security lights/thorny shrubs etc that I can't really do in a rented house. Is it worth getting the wireless alarm?

theGrinch

someone indoors

SailorSam

If your out of an evening one of those flashing lights that look from the outside that the Tv is on looks quite good.
I think i saw them in the latest Lidl email.