IT'S better to be safe than sorry so make sure your home has got what it takes to fend off would-be intruders.

It doesn’t have to be like Fort Knox, because, according to the Association of Chief Police Officers, if a burglar hasn’t gained entry within a couple of minutes he is off to where he can.

To make your home secure, both front and back doors must be strong and sound with good, solid frames. It is preferable if glass in or around them is laminated so they’re not easily broken to gain entry.

For insurance reasons locks should be five-lever mortise/sash deadlocks for maximum security. But there are also some very capable rim deadlocks that are recommended for doors too thin to accommodate a mortise lock.

It is said that a third of burglars gain entry through out-of-sight windows. Some louvred windows on downstairs cloakrooms often have glass ‘slats’ which are easily removed. So glue them in place.

Key-operated window locks, particularly on all downstairs windows, are important - but don’t leave the keys in.

Visible burglar alarms, too, make intruders think twice. There are many types available, some can be installed by a handyman while others need a professional to do the work. Systems should meet BS4737 if professionally installed, and BS6707 if it’s a DIY job.

Finally, don’t leave valuables in full view because it’s courting disaster.