How do you reduce the risk of lock snapping?

Across Humberside, Humberside Police are seeing burglaries taking place where a lock has been ‘snapped’ to allow the offender entry to the property.

Lock snapping is where force is used to ‘snap’ the cylinder in the lock, which then allows access to the locking mechanism of the door. This method is very quick, very quiet and requires very little skill.

There are options that can be considered to reduce the risk of your locks being ‘snapped’ – 

·  Fit SS312 diamond approved lock cylinders that have been tested to resist this type of attack. Look out for a 3-diamond mark on the lock cylinder.

·  Make sure that any cylinder fitted is the correct length for your door. Cylinders come in different sizes and should be flush with the outside of the door/handle when fitted correctly, this makes it more difficult to get hold of the cylinder.

·  Consider upgrading the handle to a higher level of security, a 2-star handle will provide better protection for the cylinder.

·  Consider using motion activated CCTV that will alert you to anyone going near the doors of your property.

As always, it is recommended that you contact a reputable locksmith who can advise you on the best locks and ensure they are fitted correctly.

For more crime prevention advice, visit the Secured by design website on the following link – here.