Safer Street

Security experts from Norfolk Police's Crime Reduction Department carried out detailed inspections of each property. Recommendations were made to each resident, taking into account their current security, practicality and life style. Then the contractors got to work.

• A 6ft lockable wrought iron gate was fitted inside the shared alley. All the residents with access have been given a key and asked to make sure they share the responsibility for keeping this locked.
• A broken wooden front gate was replaced with a stronger wrought iron one, and 4ft of additional railings.
• Ninety metres of wooden trellis was secured along the top of a low wall at the back of the properties.
• A very old side wall was demolished and replaced with 5ft of strong fencing.
• A vulnerable low gate has been replaced with one that is both higher and lockable.
• Electricians have installed outside lighting so residents are now able see into their back gardens at night.
• Prickly Pyracantha has been planted along the back walls. These are fast growing and will provide an additional natural barrier.
• Door locks have been upgraded with either British Standard 5 lever mortice deadlocks or rim night latch locks.
• Spy holes, and restrictor bars have been fitted to front doors - much easier to use than the traditional chain alternative.
• Additional window locks have been fitted where the traditional style windows require extra security.
• Existing locks on sheds have been replaced with much stronger Closed Shackle padlocks.
• Shed windows have been obscured with frosted film to prevent an easy view of the contents. It's also extra strong to prevent the window shattering if smashed.
• Hinges on sheds are fitted with coach bolts - these can not be removed from the outside.
• Each resident has also been given a permanent U.V. pen with which to mark their property with a unique reference - usually their postcode.

How do I do it?

Door locks, window locks, padlocks, and frosted film can be bought from your local DIY or hardware store. However, depending on your circumstances you may want to get a local specialist to help you. Make sure you use a reputable supplier, look out for affiliations with the likes of the Master Locksmiths Association and the British Standards Institution. See the Contacts page for more details.

The alley gate was pivotal to the heightened security aspect of this project. In some areas alley gates are fitted and paid for by the local council, you may want to see if your council has a similar scheme. If not, maybe your neighbours would be interested in clubbing together to get one installed. Your local police force's Crime Reduction Department should also be able to advise you.

If you're interested in finding out more about how to secure your home visit the Contacts Page where you will find links to the Home Office and the Police. However, if you are concerned about crime in your area or feel you need some extra advice on securing your property get in touch with your local crime reduction officer or Safer Neighbourhood Team.

* British Crime Survey 2007/2008
** Research conducted with 2,592 adults online between 22nd and 29th August 2008. The survey was carried out by Redshift Ltd.