Basic Security in the Home does not need to cost a fortune,in fact it could save you a fortune.In a matter of minutes, the time it could take you to read this article, there will have been five burglaries

In nearly two thirds of cases break-ins are through the doors of a property,followed by the windows (32%)A home security alarm with alarm monitoring, home security cameras (CCTV) and quality security locks fitted are part of the best security scenario for your property.There are however some simple crime prevention measures you can take that will not cost you anything or are cost very effective to help further protect your home.

Easy crime prevention includes checking that external doors are locked especially at night, fit a suitable door viewer and install a chain and bolt.Put a deadbolt on any cellar or basement doors from the inside if possible or a hasp and good strong padlock on the outside.Shut all the windows as well as the small ones when you go out.Make sure valuables are out of sight and not left out where they could be easily taken.Make sure that any gardening equipment and ladders are locked away to prevent them being used to help a burglar break-in.It is not a good idea to leave a spare key under the doormat or a plant pot, leave a spare key with a trusted friend or neighbour.

Security lighting is cheap and usually come with built-in PIR motion detector, which will light up when someone approaches your property.Thieves hate to be noticed and the last thing they want is to be seenSecurity lighting is also a good safety feature to help provide safer access to your door.

A cheap battery operated PIR Motion detector costs very little and could alert you to an intruder and hopefully frighten them away if they think they are going to be discovered Put some thought into where the best position to place the motion detector is, avoiding pets and children

Join or start a neighbourhood watch scheme in your area. Your local Police department should be able to give you help and advice to set one up and run it.

When you go out especially in the evening shut the blinds or curtains and leave a radio on, make it look and sound like someone is still in

Install good quality window locks and pay particular attention to windows on the ground floor. Dont forget not to leave the key in when you go out. Window locks are relatively cheap and easy to fit.

Mark your property with your postal or zip code using a (UV) security pen or engraving and make then less attractive to steal. (It is often harder for them to sell property that has been marked with the true owners post, zip code or details.| Its harder to sell stolen property that has been marked with the real owners zip, post code or details}

Over time it is not unusual for most people to have bought lots of DVD and CDs or other items How much does a CD or a DVD cost? Then multiply it by the number you have. Even the modest CD or DVD collection could be expensive to replace and in some cases could be impossible if your favourite CD is not longer available to order. Think about any Jewellery, DVD players, Televisions, Hi-fi, Cameras and video cameras you may have, what would it cost to replace all of these items? You might have insurance but that does not help you replace items of a sentimental value or the now deleted CD or DVD. Its your property and by taking a few simple precautions you could prevent it becoming someone elses!

Its not just the fact that someone has taken your possessions, they have been in your home and through your personal property. Then you have to deal with the Police to report the crime and then the insurance company who want receipts and lots of information. Its also a personal safety issue what would a burglar do if you have him cornered in your house, he will do almost anything rather than be caught. Think of you and the safety of your family

These measures should be in conjunction with other security measures like a home security alarm, high security window locks, security cameras (CCTV) it all helps to prevent your home from being the next crime scene

Most burglaries are opportunist and if you dont give them the opportunity you will save yourself a lot of stress and hassle.

Frank Landers is a freelance journalist and award winning photographer, He has also worked as a Travel and Security adviser (Not allowed to say who for) and is currently retained as a security adviser for Security in the Home