Windows, Locks, Keys and Alarms

Windows Few house windows have locks built-in as part of their design. There is a wide variety of suitable keyed window locks available from hardware stores or Master Locksmiths. All ground-floor windows, as well as those that an intruder might reach from a drainpipe, flat roof or "wheelie bin", should be fitted with quality locks. Always lock up even if only going out for a few minutes.

Windows should be secured so they cannot be lifted from their tracks and if replacing glass consider other materials which are harder to break or penetrate. Louvred windows should be grilled or barred.

If you want to leave windows open, consider installing aesthetically pleasing, solidly constructed aluminium or steel window security grilles. Where security grilles are placed on windows, ensure some grilles are hinged to allow exit in emergencies.You may also care to consider external roller shutters or French shutters that lock internally.

Locks Fit good quality deadlocks on solid-core external doors with strong frames, and maintain locks in good repair or have them periodically serviced by reputable and competent tradespersons. A double-cylinder deadlock requires key operation from either side of the door. This is essential if the door has a glass panel within or adjacent to it. Easy to fit key-operated locks, (capable of being keyed alike), are suitable for aluminium and timber sliding doors, sliding windows, double hung (sash), casement and hopper (awning) windows. These should be fitted as required and as directed on the packaging of the locks. Remember to use the nonreturnable screws supplied.

There are many brands of good quality locks available.

Locks for meter boxes and any gates to the meter box should be purchased from your local electricity board. This means householders can lock gates but electricity board staff still have access to allow them to take meter readings.

Keys

Under no circumstances should you 'hide' your house key under a doormat, pot plant or other obvious place. If necessary, give a spare key to a trusted neighbour but do not give one to a tradesperson. Copies are quickly and easily made. Where added security is required consider a restricted key system.

Do not mark your keys with your name and address.You can mark your keys using the police property identification system.

Locks may be 'keyed alike' so that one key will open all doors and one key will open all windows.

Make sure you keep keys where you can reach them in a hurry - for example, in case of fire.

Intruder Alarms

Alarms should not be a substitute for good physical security but rather be an addition to it.

When buying an intruder alarm system consideration should be given to obtaining more than one quote so as to make sure you are getting the system you need.

Seek advice when installing an alarm.

There are several alarm components available including:

• Movement detectors (ultrasonic, microwave infra-red) which react to movement and/or heat and can be placed in strategic locations around your home.
  
• Magnetic Reed Switches, electro-mechanical devices that are activated when the electronic circuit is broken.
  
• Duress or panic assistance in the form of a fixed button, coded pad pin alert, or a portable device connected to an alarm

A good alarm should include the following:

• 24 hour battery backup.
  
• Comply with Australian Standards 2201.
  
• Two tamper resistant sirens, one inside and one outside (satellite).
  
• "User friendly" code pad and control box.
  
• The installing company has technicians available every day throughout the year.
  
• Installer uses 14/020 wiring (six core wiring).
  
• 12 month warranty on components and installation.

If monitored, the alarm system must include Austel approved dialler and wiring. The installer must be licenced.

No alarms are directly connected to a police station. Neighbours, friends or an alarm monitoring security company are usually relied upon to ensure an effective response (notify police if necessary) to the alarm.