How to Protect Your Home from Burglary in the West Midlands.

Between June 2023 and June 2024, the West Midlands saw over 20,291 reported burglaries. This alarming statistic highlights the importance of securing your home against potential break-ins.

Common Methods of Break-In

One of the most common vulnerabilities we encounter during burglaries is the use of unrated cylinders in doors. These cylinders are much easier to snap from the outside, allowing burglars quick and easy access to your home.¹

Steps to Protect Your Home

1. Install British Standard Locks The first step in securing your home is ensuring that all your doors are fitted with British Standard locks. For UPVC and composite doors, it’s crucial to install either a 1-star (1*) rated or, preferably, a 3-star (3*) rated cylinder. But what do these ratings mean?
   • 1-Star (1) Cylinder*: These cylinders must meet the requirements of BS 3621:2017 and the minimum requirements for BS EN 1303:2015. These standards ensure the lock can withstand physical attacks, offers key security, is fire-resistant, durable, resists plug extraction, and is protected against lock bumping.
   • 3-Star (3) Cylinder*: In addition to meeting all the requirements of a 1-star cylinder, a 3-star cylinder must withstand attacks as per the standards set out in PAS24. It must resist snapping attacks without the additional protection of security handles or escutcheons, making it a far more secure option.
2. Fit Additional Locks Adding extra security measures like sash jammers is a great way to further secure your doors. Sash jammers are affordable, easy to install, and provide an additional layer of protection.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of a break-in and protect your home from becoming another statistic.

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¹ For more information on burglary rates in the West Midlands, visit the CrimeRate website: West Midlands Burglary Statistics.