How to Burglar-Proof Your Windows

Many burglars enter homes by simply breaking glass windows. A good deterrent is to have better quality glass installed at vulnerable points around the perimeter of your residence. Most burglars avoid attempting to break the following types of glass due to the fear of attracting attention:

Laminated Glass

Laminated glass is made by a vinyl or plastic interlayer sandwiched between two layers of glass. This type of glass adds additional strength to your windows. To gain entry, a burglar would have to strike the glass repeatedly in the same spot in order to make a small opening. Most burglars are reluctant to create this type of noise for fear of being detected.

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is made by placing a piece of regular glass in an oven, bringing it almost to the melting point, and then chilling it rapidly. This causes a skin to form around the glass. Fully tempered glass is four to five times stronger than regular glass.

Wired Glass

Wired glass adds the benefit of a visible deterrent. Extra effort will be needed to break the glass and then cut through the wire located within the glass, in order to gain entry.

Plastics

Plastic material is divided into two types : acrylic or polycarbonate. The acrylics are more than ten times stronger than glass of the same thickness and are commonly called plexiglass. Polycarbonate sheets are superior to acrylics and are advertised as 250 times more impact resistant than safety glass, and 20 more times than other transparent plastic.

Sliding Windows

With sliding windows the primary objective is to keep the window from sliding or being lifted up and out of the track. There are many manufactured products available for securing windows. Here are some of the suggestions:

Pinned Window Anti-Slide Block Slidebolt

It is not recommended that you lock a window in a ventilated position. This is an invitation to a prying action which can result in entry. Key locking devices offer no real security, and they can be a fire exit hazard.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are the simplest to secure. Make sure the latch works properly and that the "operator" has no excess play. If so, replace the worn hardware.

Double Hung Windows

Double hung window latches may be jimmied open. If a window is not used, screw it shut (except bedrooms). For windows in use, drill a sloping hole into the top of the bottom window, through and into the bottom of the top window, and insert an easily removable pin or nail.

Louvre Windows

Louvre windows are bad security risks. Remove and replace with solid glass or other type of ventilating window. Or protect with a grate or grille (except bedrooms).

WARNING: One window in every bedroom on the ground and second floor must be left available as a fire exit, particularly for children and guests in your home. At night, the bedroom window may often be the quickest and safest means of getting out. Because of the danger of fire, decorative grilles are not recommended on bedroom windows.


Related Articles

How to Burglar-Proof Your Doors

The majority of devices mentioned in this report cost very little. All of them will help reduce burglary and make your house or apartment more secure.

How to Protect Yourself from Armed Robbery

While a purse snatching is one of today's most common crimes facing women, strong arm robbery (hold-ups, muggings) is the most prevalent act where men are generally the victims.

How to Reduce Crime in Your Neighborhood

While we don't like to talk about it - or even think about it - crime is on the increase in America, and throughout the world. The number of burglars, muggers, auto thieves, robbers, purse snatchers, etc., is growing at an alarming rate.

How to Protect Yourself when Traveling

How to Protect Yourself when Traveling

How Shoplifting Affects You and Your Family

One of the most common non-violent crimes facing America today--and most of the world--is shoplifting. So prevalent is this problem that most stores and shops automatically increase prices (as much as 10%) to cover these losses.

How to Protect Yourself on City Streets

Street crime is on the increase in most large U.S. cities. It is also becoming more prevalent in small communities. The following list of "safeguards" will help protect you - and may even save your life!

How to Select a Burglar Alarm

Burglars dislike noise - it attracts attention. A barking dog is the best deterrent in preventing burglaries. However, a watch dog cannot always be depended upon.

How to Guard Against Purse Snatchers

Purse snatching is a crime of opportunity. You can eliminate that opportunity. Every female carrying a purse is a potential target.

The 10 Best Ways You Can Hide Your Valuables

Hiding your life's treasures under your pillow or mattress won't safeguard them from a thief. However, this doesn't mean that a safety deposit box at your bank is the only place for them.

How to Safeguard Against Rape

If you are a female, chances are 1 in 10 that you will be a victim of sexual assault. The attacker makes no distinction between age, race, appearance or any other characteristics.