Stay Safe In The Home.

• Always make sure there is an external light, consider having one which switches on with an automatic sensor when your door is approached.

• Peep Holes are invaluable, ensure it has a cover flap and if you need to use it do try to make sure that there is no light behind you so, so you can observe unnoticed

• Ensure that you have a full 5 lever mortis lock on the door and use it. Always have a Rim Latch – a door lock which closes automatically,. Many forget to manually lock their doors making it incredibly easy to gain access, there are hundreds of reports of people being burgled or worse in the early morning, evening simply because the they forgot to lock the front door! . For night time burglaries , be able to lock your bedroom door from the inside . . A reputable locksmith can help you to choose the appropriate lock for your particular needs .

• Fit a recognised Monitored Alarm system .Make sure you house alarm has a panic button beside the door you can press if concerned. Contact your home insurer to recommend an approved brand as often you can avail of a discount on the cost this way . • If you are awakened at night when someone enters your home, do not arm yourself with a nine iron etc etc . . and go to check it out . You are liable to startle the burglar and provoke a violent confrontation . Its best to barricade yourself into your room and loudly let them know you are calling the police . Even if you don’t have a phone pretend to make the call loudly and this will encourage them to flee .

• Always look for ID to be given when Gas/Electric/Law enforcement representatives turn up unexpectedly at your door . Politely ask them to wait , and close the door ,while you make a call to confirm their ID.

• Door chains are a must, and should always be used if you do not know the person at the door. If someone tries to force their way in the chain will help but not necessarily stop them,so you should be prepared for this …In order to stop someone forcing the door open, you will need to anchor your foot against somemediumg so you can push with the full power off you legs, maybe you can use the bottom of the stairs , if not consider anchoring a some door stoppers in the floor that you can leverage against.