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Home & Property - Strengthen entry points

You get home and find out that burglars broke in and took everything - now that's something to be upset about! Here is some advice on how to strengthen you doors, windows and other entry points, so as to prevent burglars from entering your home.

Are your doors strong enough?

• The best doors have a solid core, with solid frame molding on either side of the lock. If your door is hollow, seriously consider having it replaced by a professional, as the job is complicated. The best lock is utterly useless if one good kick is enough to break down the door!
• A good lock is worth it! You can buy a double-cylinder lock at any good locksmith. The deadbolt should be at least 1 inch deep and once closed, the door cannot be opened without a key, even from inside. But take care to always leave the key in the lock when you're at home.
• If you have just moved in, replace the lock on the house.
• A front door that opens outward has hinges accessible from outside. To make them impossible to remove, flatten both ends of the pins or insert a screw in the center that is impossible to remove.
• Glass panels in doors and side panels in certain entries can be replaced with break-resistant plastic panels or reinforced with grills.
• A peephole lets you see who's knocking at the door. Give children clear instructions not to answer the door when you're not home. Don't trust chain bolts - once the door is open, a good shove is all it takes to easily break the latch.
• Patio doors are vulnerable. Drill holes in the frame at the top and bottom to insert bolts. Get into the habit of sliding the bolts into place along with a piece of wood to block the door before you leave.
• Patio doors can be lifted and removed without much effort. Install a plate or screw in the upper track.
• The door between the garage and house should be as solid as your exterior doors and equipped with the same security devices.
• Always leave your garage door closed. If you plan to be away for a while, padlock the door tracks. And don't leave the garage door opener in your car; store it in your house instead.

Are your windows burglar-proof?

• Locking windows are a good investment.
• For double-hung windows, drill a downward-angled hole through the first sash and about halfway through the second. Immobilize the windows by inserting a large pin into the hole.
• Sliding windows can be secured with a pin through the two sashes. Place a length of wood in the tracks. If you frequently open the window, fasten the pin to the sash with a chain.
• Awning windows are hard to protect. At least remove the crank before you leave.
• If you place grills over basement windows, make sure you can still get out in an emergency, such as a fire. Fasten grills from the inside with easily removable pins. You can also replace the glass with break-resistant plastic panels.

What about other entry points?

• Have you thought about your skylights? Make sure they are installed securely and equipped with a locking device similar to that on your doors.
• Vents and all other openings over 600 cm2 (90 in.2) must be equipped with secure locking devices.