Home Security

In 3 out of 10 burglaries, thieves do not have to use force, the householder will make it easy for the thief by leaving doors or windows open, keys in the back of locks or by allowing them in without asking to see ID.

The following 'Top Tips' will help you to reduce your chances of being the next burglary victim:

Windows - in just under one third (30%) of burglaries with entry, the thief gains access through an unlocked door or open window. Make sure doors and windows are locked, particularly when leaving the house. If you are in, don't leave them unattended whilst you are in the back garden. You don't want a thief letting himself in through the front door.

Doors - if your front and back doors are not secure, neither is your home. Thieves are most likely to target doors when attempting to break in (67%). Check the condition of the frames, hinges and glass panels and fit devices such as chains and door viewers. Patio doors will also need special fitted locks. Make sure doors and windows are locked particularly when leaving the house. If you are in, don’t leave them unattended whilst you are in the back garden, you don't want a thief letting himself in through the front door.

Lighting - leave a light on to give the impression there is someone at home. 58% of burglaries take place in the evening or night and 34% occur at the weekend. Timer switches can be fitted to operate radios and lights when you are out. Be smart about how you position them – a bedroom light coming on at 9.30pm and going off at 11.00pm is sensible.

Burglar Alarms - visible burglar alarms make burglars think twice and if you have one make sure that you use it.

Keys - never leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place such as under the doormat or in a flowerpot - a thief will look there first. If you've moved into a new house, consider changing the back and front door locks - other people may have keys that fit. Never leave keys near a window or door, (thieves are increasingly stealing car keys so they can take cars, often using a hook or magnet on a stick pushed through the letterbox).

Good Neighbours - if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, call the police. Join your local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme or form a new one in your area - see what they're doing and how you can contribute..

Postcode your property - marked property can deter burglars because it is harder for a thief to sell on and may also help police secure a conviction. Download our 'Coded for Keeps' leaflet for more advice:

Bogus Callers - in 4% of burglaries, thieves used false pretence to gain entry to a property. Most people who call at your home will be genuine. But sometimes, people call with the intention of tricking their way into your home. They are known as "distraction burglars" or "bogus callers" and their aim is to get into homes to distract people and steal their money or valuables.

York Community Watch & Crime Reduction Office works closely with City of York Council and Trading Standards to set up "No Cold Caller" zones and has a range of practical leaflets and advice guides on how to reduce your chances of being a victim of this crime.

Yorkshire Water have teamed up with Community Watch in York and Selby to offer advice on Bogus Calling for their customers. Their Bogus Callers Awareness flyer (doorhanger) can be downloaded below. It highlights the issue and also has details of Yorkshire Water's phone number to call for their free password scheme.

Stolen Goods - do not buy goods that you think might have been stolen. This is rewarding burglars and encourages people to commit acquisitive crime, often to fund a drug addiction and a local drug dealer.