Week 3 – Beat the Burglar
In this week’s instalment, we will be talking about ways you can help prevent break-ins and minimise risk.
- Is your home protected by CCTV or an alarm system? CCTV is a fantastic option for home security. According to a poll of former burglars, CCTV is one of the most effective deterrents for burglary and vehicle theft, with burglars preferring an easier target.
- Do you have motion detecting security lights? A cost-effective way to reduce the risk at night. Modern DIY kits, especially solar and battery-powered versions, are easy to install without wiring.
- Are your perimeter gates lockable? Make access as awkward as possible for potential burglars.
- Are you a member of the Neighbourhood Watch scheme? Residents in Neighbourhood Watch areas are 11% less likely to experience crime.
- Do your current locks meet the current British Standards? We’ll discuss how below.
Smart CCTV
CCTV is a very effective deterrent and with modern Smart systems you have full control from your smartphone or tablet.
For example, the Yale Smart CCTV systems offer:
- Live streaming from anywhere in the world via iPhone or iPad
- Smartphone notifications when events are detected
- High-definition cameras with enhanced night vision and IP55 weatherproof rating
- Intelligent detection and recording triggers
- Timeline highlighting of activity
- Total in-app control
Smart Alarms
An alarm is an excellent addition to any home security system. The Yale Smart Home Alarm kit allows you to arm/disarm via a smartphone or iPad and offers:
- Smartphone notifications when triggered
- No monthly fees or contracts
- Part arm for zonal coverage (e.g., only the ground floor)
- Jamming detection
- Total in-app control
Mechanical Security
Upgrading your existing locks on all external doors is always advised. Many homes have expensive contents but poor-quality locks. If your locks don’t meet your insurance policy’s requirements, you may not be covered in the event of a break-in.
For wooden doors: check for the British Standard kite-mark on night latches or mortice locks, meaning they have been tested to meet insurance-approved standards. Learn more about BS kite-mark.
For uPVC and composite doors: look for snap-safe cylinders as a minimum. The best are TS007:2012 British kite mark 3-star or SS312 Sold Secure Diamond rated. You can combine a PAS 24 – 2-star handle set with a 1-star cylinder for 3-star protection.
Smart Locks for uPVC and Composite Doors
Smart locks like the Yale Conexis Smart Lock are completely keyless and let you open your door via key fob, card, or smartphone. Features include:
- Virtual keys via the Yale Smart Living app
- Battery-powered operation
- Direct handle replacement compatible with existing mechanisms
- Tamper alarm
We recommend professional installation to avoid issues such as misaligned doors, incompatible mechanisms, or poor fitting.
For any help or free advice call 07850 448 444 or 01803 613 138.
On-site Assessments and Servicing
ProSecure Locksmiths offers free, no-obligation quotes to find the best security solutions for your needs. We provide tailored home security packages for every budget and can ensure your locks meet insurance criteria.
How ProSecure Locksmiths Can Help
We provide home security assessments and insurance compliance surveys. As an official Yale Smart Security Partner, we offer the latest home security products. With 47% of burglaries being spur-of-the-moment, a trusted security brand can be an effective deterrent.