The Safer Neighbourhood Team was set up in April of 2004 to help the Metropolitan Police tackle anti-social behaviour and criminal activity. The aim was to address local concerns and issues and reduce crime to help Londoners feel safer and rebuild community trust in local policing.
Safer Neighbourhood Teams in London
Each ward is to have a Safer Neighbourhood team [SNT] including of a minimum of one sergeant, two constables and three police community safety officers [PCSO].
The main purpose of the SNTs was initially to focus on the less serious crime issues, such as anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and graffiti. All of these are known to implicate people's feelings of safety and security in their homes and neighbourhoods.
This week, they are alerting residents of block-flats and apartments about the increased burglary threat to South London homes in boroughs like Lambeth. Find out more about how the Ferndale Safer Neighbourhoods Team can help you.
Can the safety of your home be compromised within 10 seconds?
The most common method of entry for burglars is by slipping the communal front door's lock. This can be prevented by either fitting a second lock or, where one is already fitted, ensuring that it is always locked. If you live in a multi-occupancy building and your communal front door is not double locked, then your property is not secure.
If the thieves get in through the communal door and then your own front door is not double locked, that's a second weak link in the chain.
How uPVC doors make your home vulnerable to burglary
This can be a particular issue with uPVC doors which often come with a poor lock fitted as standard. The second issue with uPVC doors is when people think they have secured the door because they have raised the handle. This does not stop someone getting into the house unless the door has then been locked.
“Properties with uPVC doors are the most commonly targeted, as the cylinder (The part you put your key in) is extremely weak. It has been demonstrated that these particular cylinders can be snapped and broken in as little as 10 seconds.” - Tracy Crowe, KAT Master Locksmiths
Here is a tutorial from the KAT Locksmith website on how to fit a Yale PVCu replacement handle with a multipoint lock
Here is a PDF on ensuring your uPVC door is secure, however we advise that you upgrade your locking system to a newer and more secure model.
The Met Police's advice on securing your doors
The Met Police's operation Bumblebee also has a section on securing your doors. Their advice is:
- fit with a 5 lever mortice deadlock.
- Ensure that the frame is strong and will support the door, hinges and lock.
- Make sure the door is suitable for external use and is a minimum of 45mm thick.
- Consider fitting a London Bar or Birmingham bar to provide additional support to the door frame.
- Letterboxes should have an internal cover plate.
- For additional safety and security fit a spy hole and door chain.
- Do not leave house keys in or near the door as they can get removed through the letterbox.
Remember, the Metropolitan Police have confirmed that burglar alarm systems are a worthwhile investment in the protection of your home and family. Find out more about our Burglar Alarm Systems and book your FREE Site Survey here
