Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is an effective way of reducing crime in your own home. CPTED is a proactive approach that aims to reduce or eliminate opportunities for crime. Best implemented at the conceptual or design stage, but commonly used to enhance security. CPTED can result in reduced crime, reduced fear of crime and reduced nuisance behaviour. However, Here are three tools that will be useful when addressing security issues around your home. These principles have been proven successful in reducing the opportunity of being victimized.

Lighting

Dark areas are crime attractors. Here are some suggestions for strategic lighting:

• Photo / motion sensitive lighting at a tamper proof height
• Leave your Power Smart porch light on at night
• Consider using timers on interior lights

Locks

Poor home security makes your home a bigger target for crime. Insufficient locks can make you and your family more vulnerable. Here are some suggestions for lock security:

• All exterior doors should have a deadbolt lock with a 1" throw
• Use 3" screws in hinges and striker plates
• Secondary locks are advisable on all exterior doors and windows
• Lock quality is paramount

Landscaping

Privacy is important but should not have a negative impact on you and your neighbours home security.

• Shrubbery should be well trimmed and below a metre in height
• Trees should be trimmed up so the bottom of the crown is above two metres in height
• Fences should permit good visibility
• Create a border around your property that defines your private home from public space