Basic Tips:

• When you go out, always lock the door and close the windows - even if you are just going out for a short time.
• Window locks, especially on older windows, will help stop people getting in (and remember, a burglar is less likely to break in if they have to smash a window).
• If you have deadlocks, use them.  They make it harder for a thief to get out again.  But don't leave the key near the door or in an obvious place.
• Don't leave spare keys outside or in a garage or shed, and put car keys or garage keys out of sight in the house.
• Use timers for lights and radios if you need to be away from home overnight.  They will create the impression that someone is in.  Horsham District Council provides low cost home safety devices.
• Visible burglar alarms, good lighting and carefully directed security lighting can put burglars off.  Please make sure that lighting does not disturb neighbours.
• Fences at the back of the house may make this area more secure, but walls and solid fencing may let a thief break in without being seen.  Agood compromise is chain-link fencing, or trellises with prickly shrubs.
• Fitting a 'spy hole' allows you to see who is at the door.  Having a door chain means that you can open the door a little way to talk to them.

Make sure that any improvements you make don't stop you from getting out of your house as quickly as possible if there is a fire.