Securing Doors and Windows

Good locks, good lighting and neighbours who look out for each other do most of the work. This page is about prevention. If someone is trying to get in, keep away from them, leave if you can, and call 911.

Doors

From the National Crime Prevention Council (a US organization):

• Use solid wood or wood-filled exterior doors in reinforced frames.
• Fit deadbolts with at least a 1-inch (2.5 cm) bolt. Grade 2 or better is the benchmark.
• Reinforce the strike plate into the frame with 2 to 3 inch (5 to 7.5 cm) screws.
• Put a deadbolt on the door between the garage and the house.
• Use a locking pin or similar device on sliding doors to stop them being lifted off the track.
• Use the same quality locks on basement and utility doors.

A double-cylinder deadbolt (one that needs a key on both sides) is sometimes suggested for doors with glass. Check local rules first, as NCPC says some communities restrict them. Think about fire escape too. Keep a key near the door and make sure everyone can reach it. Never make a door that you cannot open from inside in a fire.

Windows

• Use key-operated locks or removable pins so windows cannot be forced open.
• Check that windows are not stuck, and that screens and security bars open quickly from inside. Ready.gov asks you to do this for fire escape.

Keys

Keep a list of who has a key. Consider giving a spare only to someone you trust.

Around the home

• Trim shrubs so they do not offer hiding places.
• Light entrances and walkways. In an outage, use battery or solar motion lights.
• Lock outbuildings.

In a long outage

• Keep valuables and supplies out of view from the street, as you would on any other day.
• Agree a check-in plan with neighbours.
• Never block exits. Your way out in a fire comes first.