advises that burglars often target windows as they can provide easier access than doors. To secure your home, they recommend a combination of physical locks, glass reinforcement, and "natural" deterrents.
Key-Operated Locks: These are recommended for all ground-floor and accessible windows (e.g., near balconies or flat roofs).
Sash Stops: These prevent sash windows from being opened wide enough for someone to climb through.
Opening Restrictors: These allow for ventilation while preventing the window from being opened further from the outside; ensure they cannot be easily picked.
Shed & Outbuilding Security: Secure outbuilding windows with internal metal grilles or solid iron bars to protect stored valuables like bikes and tools.
Glass Reinforcement
Laminated Glass: WMP recommends using laminated safety glass for ground-floor windows and glazed areas near doors. Unlike toughened glass, which shatters into small pieces, laminated glass stays together when struck, making it much harder to breach.
Security Film: For an inexpensive upgrade, apply security window film to existing glass to prevent shattering and delay forced entry.
Deterrence & "Nature’s Barbed Wire"
The 1-Metre Rule: Keep front hedges and fences under one metre in height so burglars cannot work on windows hidden from street view.
Prickly Planting: Plant defensive shrubs like Pyracantha, Berberis, or Holly (Ilex) under vulnerable windows to create a painful natural barrier.
Gravel Paths: Using gravel around the property creates noise when stepped on, alerting you to intruders.
Essential Habits
Remove Keys: Never leave window keys in the locks or on nearby tables where they can be "fished" through a letterbox or cat flap.
Eliminate Climbing Aids: Store ladders, bins, and garden furniture securely so they cannot be used to reach upper-floor windows.
Accreditation: When replacing windows, look for the PAS 24: 2022 standard or products with the Secured by Design logo.
For professional advice on specific locks, West Midlands Police suggests consulting a locksmith via the Master Locksmiths Association
