We all want to feel safe in our own homes and to ensure our families and our property are protected.  Perhaps one of the greatest fears is the threat of our loved ones being harmed during a home invasion.  However, household burglary is one of the most common crimes in Australia, with almost 200,000 home burglaries recorded every year.  According to a report released by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, the most commonly stolen items are money, jewellery, laptops, cameras, mobile phones, wallets and credit cards.

What can you do to prevent a break in?  It may be surprising to read that many burglars enter through the front door.  A survey of police detainees conducted in Western Australia by DUMA (Drug Use Monitoring in Australia) indicated that burglars were most likely to be deterred from attempting to break into a house by a dog, a functioning alarm system, lights or security screens. Security screen doors provide you with peace of mind that you and your family are safe and your property is protected while you are away as well as when you are at home. 

It is tempting for Australians to leave doors and windows open when they are at home and when it is hot and stuffy.  However this leaves your home vulnerable to burglars, who may attempt to enter your property even when you are home.  The number one reason for targeting a premises identified by detainees in the DUMA report was reported as "security/accessibility".  Security screen doors enable you to let air and light into your home, whilst keeping your home secure and your family safe.

According to Choice, there are a number of factors to consider when purchasing a security screen door.  The frame should be constructed of steel or aluminium with reinforced corners and with a deep receiver channel for the grille so that it cannot be easily pushed out.  The infill may be made of steel, aluminium grille, structural grade aluminium perforated sheets or stainless steel mesh, which is popular as it does not spoil your view.  Grilles should be thick and strong and must be properly affixed to the frame so that they cannot be separated.  Quality and well-functioning locks and hinges are also essential.  Other factors to consider are corrosion protection, fire safety, compliance with Australian standards and proven performance by a reputable company.  Custom design and installation also ensure optimal security by providing a perfect fit to the last millimetre.