Crime reduction 

Lock, Stop, Chain, Check

Lock

• Make sure that your door is locked when you're at home. Don't unlock it until you're sure who is on the other side. Be extra careful who you answer your door to - if you're unsure, don't open your door.
• Make sure that your back door is closed and locked before answering your front door - thieves sometimes work in pairs, with one entering through the back door while the other knocks on the front door.

Stop

• If someone appears at your door and you're not expecting any visitors, check that all the doors are locked. Look through the spy-hole viewer or one of your windows to see who it is.
• Install an outside light above your door. When someone calls at your door, turn the light on to get a good look at them. Position the light so that it lights up the caller's face.

Chain

• If you decide to open the door, put the door chain or bar on first. Keep the bar or chain on while you are talking.
• Normally, when the door is shut and locked, leave the bar or chain off, in case you need to get out in an emergency - such as a fire, or if someone wanted to enter your property if you needed help.
• If you need glasses to read the caller's ID card, close and lock your door before going to get your glasses. Never leave the door open and unattended.

Check

• Ask for, and double check, the caller’s identity card. Keep your door chain on while you do this. And, if you're still not sure, ask for a number that you can ring to confirm their identity. If they can't show you any identification, don't let them in.