10 ways To Secure Your Front Door

According to data from CrimeRate, there were 238,893 burglary reports in England and Wales in 2024, a 4.8% decrease from the 250,823 reports in 2023. Although there has been a reduction in burglary incidents, it's important to remain vigilant, as the risk of burglary still exists.

The safest area in England and Wales for burglary is the City of London, with a crime rate of just 0.97 per 1,000 people in 2024. Plymouth comes in second place, with a crime rate of 1.93, followed by Swindon at 2.41 per 1,000 daytime population.

On the other hand, the cities with the highest burglary rates are Hackney, Middlesbrough, and Leeds, with crime rates of 9.57, 9.33, and 8.86 per 1,000 people, respectively. South Yorkshire is the most burglary-prone area, reporting a crime rate of 6.93 per 1,000 people in 2024. This is followed by West Yorkshire with a rate of 6.57, and the West Midlands, where the burglary rate stands at 6.32 per 1,000 people.

Regardless of whether we live in the safest or the most high-risk area for burglary, it's crucial to take steps to protect our homes. The most effective way to do so is by securing the front door, as it's the most common point of entry for burglars. To help you safeguard your home, here are 10 practical tips for protecting your front door:

1. Strengthen the Door Frame

The first line of defense for your front door is the door frame itself. A weak or flimsy frame can be easily compromised by a burglar using force. Strengthening your door frame with high-quality materials such as steel or reinforced wood can significantly increase its resistance to break-ins. Consider adding additional screws, bolts, or even a metal reinforcement plate to make the frame more durable. A strong frame will provide better support for the door and prevent burglars from kicking it in or breaking through.

2. Replace with a Stronger Door

Not all doors are created equal, and if your current door is made from hollow wood or weak materials, it may be time to upgrade. A solid core door, especially one made from steel, fiberglass, or reinforced wood, offers superior protection against forced entry. These materials are more resistant to impact and provide added security. Make sure the door is properly fitted to the frame with minimal gaps, as even the smallest opening can be exploited by intruders.

3. Upgrade the Door Lock

One of the most effective ways to secure your front door is by upgrading the lock. Standard locks are often insufficient for protecting your home from burglars. Consider installing high-security locks such as deadbolts, which cannot be easily bypassed. Look for locks with anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill features to make them more resistant to tampering. You might also want to opt for a smart lock that can be controlled remotely, allowing you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere.

4. Install a Peephole

A peephole is a simple yet effective tool for enhancing security. By installing a peephole or a wide-angle viewer in your front door, you can safely assess who is at your door before opening it. This is particularly useful for preventing "bump-and-rob" tactics, where burglars pose as delivery personnel or other trusted individuals. You can even install a digital peephole that connects to your phone, allowing you to see who is at your door without ever having to come close to the door.

5. Install a Smart Video Doorbell

A smart video doorbell, equipped with features like motion detectors, two-way audio, and video storage, is an excellent addition to your front door security. With a smart doorbell, you can see and interact with visitors remotely, even when you're away from home. Many models also send real-time alerts to your phone whenever someone is at the door, allowing you to monitor any suspicious activity. The visible camera itself acts as a deterrent to burglars, as they are aware they’re being recorded. Additionally, some smart video doorbells, such as the anyfree Hello Doorbell, include a tamper alarm function. This feature sends a notification and triggers a sound if someone attempts to dismantle the doorbell, providing an extra layer of protection for your front door.

6. Install a Security Alarm System

A home alarm system is one of the most effective ways to deter burglars. By installing an alarm system that is connected to your front door, you can ensure that any unauthorized attempts to enter your home will trigger a loud alarm, alerting you and your neighbors. Modern alarm systems often include sensors on doors and windows, and they can be linked to your phone to provide real-time alerts. Some systems even include surveillance cameras that can capture footage of the intruder for later use by law enforcement.

7. Install Security Cameras

Security cameras are a powerful tool for securing your front door. Not only do they record any suspicious activity, but they also serve as a visible deterrent to potential burglars. High-definition security cameras that cover your front door, porch, and driveway provide valuable footage in the event of an attempted break-in. Many modern cameras also offer remote viewing, allowing you to monitor your home from anywhere via your smartphone or computer.

8. Use a Door Barricade or Chain

While a quality lock can provide significant security, adding a door barricade or chain offers an extra layer of protection. A door chain or slide bolt prevents the door from being fully opened, even if the lock is tampered with. This is particularly useful when you are home, as it allows you to open the door slightly to speak with a visitor while still maintaining a barrier. Door barricades, such as a security bar or a door jammer, are also effective at preventing the door from being forced open.

9. Install Motion-Sensor Lighting

One of the most effective ways to deter burglars is by installing motion-sensor lights around your front door. Motion-sensing lighting will automatically turn on when someone approaches your door, illuminating the area and making it harder for intruders to remain unnoticed. The sudden illumination also draws attention to the area, increasing the chances that the burglar will move on. Ensure that the lights cover your entire front yard and entrance to eliminate any dark spots where a criminal could hide.

10. Install a Mail Slot Cover or Anti-Wind Plate

A mail slot can be an entry point for burglars to reach through and unlock your door. To prevent this, install a mail slot cover or an anti-wind plate to block access to the inside of your home. These covers are designed to secure the mail slot while still allowing you to receive mail safely. Additionally, these plates can protect against drafts and help maintain the security of your home by preventing anyone from reaching inside through the slot.

 

Securing your front door is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your home and loved ones. By implementing the strategies outlined in this blog, such as strengthening your door frame, upgrading locks, installing smart technology, and using additional security devices like motion-sensor lighting and surveillance cameras, you can significantly enhance the safety of your property. Each measure, whether it's adding a peephole or installing a tamper-proof smart video doorbell, contributes to a more secure entryway, deterring potential burglars and giving you peace of mind. Remember, a well-secured front door is your first defense against intrusion, and taking proactive steps today can help prevent problems tomorrow.