Living as we do on Islands blessed with bright sunshine virtually all year round the last thing we want to do is shut it out. Large windows and patio doors are particular favourites for letting the sun shine through to our houses and apartments whatever the season. However, patios and terraces can also be an open invitation to burglars unless careful attention is paid to safeguarding the more vulnerable points for potential break-ins. Security grills offer ideal protection. Main types of security grills include one for standard doors and one for sliding patio doors. Look for security grills with a patented locking device that can withstand up to 1,000 pounds of force. Patio door security grills should also prevent thieves from lifting the door off the track. Making your home difficult to get into in the first place is the ideal way of ultimately protecting your pocessions, as well as safeguarding your personal safety. Recent research in the United Kingdom showed that burglars will usually work no longer than 60 seconds in trying to obtain entry to a property before moving on to try and find easier pickings. In Malta and Gozo we enjoy far greater security compared with other countries but we should not be complacent and unwittingly leave the way open to opportunist crime. It’s a good idea to consider securing all external doors to your house with keyed knobsets and deadbolt locks. The deadbolt locks on your doors should have high security features such as interlocking chasis and full one inch throws. Garage doors should also be secured and remember do not use padlocks, because when it rains in Malta it really rains and you don’t want your padlocks rusting! Lighting, alarm systems, cameras, in and around your home all form part of effective crime deterrents. When used properly, light discourages criminal activity and gives those living inside a greater feeling of well-being. Highly vulnerable areas and those that could conceal intruders should be illuminated more brightly than areas designated for normal activity. And remember that one certain way of reducing the risk of crime in and around your home is by being a good neighbour. |