Fortunately we don’t have too many burglaries here in Ross and the Forest. Most break ins that I do see have just been brute force and ignorance rather than having used any skill. A typical example would be ripping a window out of the frame, or putting a heavy concrete planter through a patio door glass.
I’ve only seen this type of damage caused to the lock below twice – and both in the past year. In neither occasion did the burglar get in using this method. In the example below the burglar did finally get into the property but not by damaging this lock.
Euro cylinder that resisted a brute force attack. Forest of Dean.
Perhaps it’s just coincidence but I’ve been to more burglaries or attempted burglaries in Bream than anywhere else in the Forest. On a positive note in one case Police did actually catch the suspect in the act.
Even the best locks won’t keep a burglar out if they can just smash your window with a garden ornament. Take a look around what is laying around in your garden that a criminal could use. Similarly keep ladders, garden tools etc secured and out of sight. Keep side gates locked where possible.
It might be harsh to say, but it isn’t about making your house impregnable. It’s about making it easier for someone to go and rob next door instead.