Security regarding UPVC doors

Lift, Lock and Remove

Although burglary rates in Havering continue to be low, recently there has been a significant increase in offences where entry is gained via UPVC multi-point locking front or back doors.

A multi-point locking door has a central lock which engages additional bolts or hooks when the handle is lifted.

To reduce vulnerability to this type of burglary, Havering Police strongly urge everyone who has a UPVC external door to secure it fully at night and when the home is unoccupied, by following the simple procedure outlined below.

Shut the door and lift the handle.
Lock the door by turning the key.
Remove the key from the lock and keep it nearby – Remember don’t leave the key within sight of the door or window or where it could be hooked out through the letterbox.
Our partners in the London Fire Brigade advise that the key should be kept in a safe location, known to all members of the household, where it can be quickly located in the event of a fire or emergency.

People should not be lulled into a false sense of security by thinking that by simply shutting the door and/or lifting the handle without turning the key, the door is locked. Shut YES, Locked NO – Only a key can do this.

Entry can still be gained from the outside if you do not use your key to lock the door.

If you would like further advice or receive a free home security pack please contact the Havering Safer Communities Advisors on 01708 779 400.