Break-ins to homes are common. But most break-ins are crimes of opportunity.  Entry is often through an open or unlocked window or door.  Other times thieves enter by breaking windows or doors that only appear strong.

Use this checklist to make it as difficult as possible for burglars to enter your home.

If you can't tick off an item, this may be how a burglar could one day enter your home.

• 1-2 doors allow entry to my home from the outside
• All of these doors have solid cores and reinforced door frames and deadlocks.
• Patio glass sliding doors have special locks fitted by a locksmith.
• All of these doors have steel (not aluminium) security doors as an extra barrier.
• All deadlocks are keyed the same.
• I can identify visitors before I open the door. My front door has a peephole (or video camera) and light outside.
• I make it hard for someone to push in if I open the door. I have a steel security door and a peephole/video or I have a door chain which I always use.
• 1-2 windows face the outside.
• All windows are secured by grills - so I can have fresh air when at home but be secure.
• All windows not secured by grills have security locks.
• Two or more windows have hinged grills. I can escape easily in an emergency.
• All of my door and window security devices (locks, grills, steel doors) were bought from and installed by a locksmith.
• My home is clearly visible from the street. I have pruned bushes and trees. All windows and doors are visible to the street or neighbours.
• I have installed external security lights. Any thieves can be seen.
• There are no keys hidden outside the house in the garden or garage.
• Only family and close friends have keys to my secured home.
• Doors are always locked but I can exit easily in an emergency.
• I lock my wheelie bins away so thieves can't use them as step ladders to gain entry.
• I leave a light and radio or TV on if away for a short time. This gives the impression I'm at home.
• I keep cash and valuables out of easy reach and out of sight.
• I never give keys to tradesmen or people delivering to my home.
• I never leave notes on doors suggesting that no-one is home.
• I never have deliveries sitting outside when I'm not home. Deliveries are made to neighbours if I'm not home.
• I never keep cash on business premises after hours.
• I never bring business takings home.

When I'm on holidays:

• I cancel home deliveries.
• I get my mail held or redirected or a friend or neighbour clears my mail box daily.
• A friend or neighbour clears junk mail and mows my lawn.
• I turn down the phone volume.
• I inform local police of my absence and provide contact numbers.
• I put away my wheelie bins (inside if necessary). A friend or neighbour empties bins before putting them away.
• I check that all windows and doors are locked.
• I complete the travel checklist