Many of us worry about break-ins and burglaries. Not only is there the risk of financial loss and disruption, having someone invade your property can be very emotionally traumatic.

As such, keeping your home secure is essential for your own safety and peace of mind. Good security can also be a priority for potential buyers.

One of the key things to remember is that most burglaries are carried out by opportunistic thieves. Around 20% of all burglaries do not even involve the use of force; thieves enter freely through open doors or windows.

In considering home security, try to look at your property through a burglar's eyes. Could they break in without being seen? Do the doors and windows look secure? Can they see things worth stealing? Could they get in and out quickly and quietly? There are several important areas to think about:

Doors

It may sound like an obvious one, but make sure you lock all your doors properly when leaving the house and at night time. Even when doors are locked, entry is sometimes forced by kicking in the door or prising it open.

External wooden doors should be at least 44mm thick. Make sure you have good solid locks on all external doors (five lever mortise deadlocks kite-marked to at least BS3621 are recommended).

Check your door frames are sturdy, well fitted and that the hinges are attached securely. Glass panelling in doors is particularly vulnerable and should be fitted with laminated glass if possible.

Most modern patio doors come with a multi locking system. If your patio doors are not secure, get specialist advice to make sure suitable locks are fitted at the top and bottom.

If your letterbox is close to your lock, fitting a letterbox cage will prevent thieves being able to reach inside. You may want to fit a door chain so you can speak to strangers with the door partially locked, but bear in mind these can be flimsy and should not be left on all the time in case they prevent you exiting the house quickly in an emergency. A door viewer or 'spy hole' will allow you to identify callers before opening the door (see the Bogus Callers section below).

Windows

Around a third of burglars get in through a window, so it's definitely worth checking they are secure. Don't be fooled into thinking that small windows don't matter; skilled burglars can get through any opening larger than a human head.

Visible window locks can act as a deterrent, as most thieves won't want to break glass and run the risk of drawing attention to themselves.

Pay particular attention to downstairs windows, windows which can't be seen from the street and any easy to reach upstairs windows. When replacing windows, consider using laminated glass for extra security. Double glazing is a must.

Lighting

Nearly 60% of burglaries take place under the cover of darkness. Good lighting is a deterrent, making it potentially more difficult for thieves to get in and out of your property unnoticed. Outside lights with movement sensors can give you warning that there is someone close to your home. If you already have normal outdoor lights, you can buy separate sensors to convert them.

Outdoor lighting can use up lots of energy and be a nuisance to neighbours and traffic. It's worth considering low-wattage lighting, energy efficient bulbs, and solar powered lights. Make sure lighting is not turned on unnecessarily in broad daylight, shining directly into other people's windows at night or angled in such a way as to distract passing drivers.