EXTERNAL DOORS

All external doors are vulnerable to attack and their security needs to be given careful consideration.

It is not easy to suggest how every type of door should be secured because of the vast array of door types which are currently available.

But where possible, external doors should be of solid construction and set into a robust frame which is securely anchored to the fabric of the building.

The door should be set flush to the external wall of the building on order to deny any intruders the opportunity to work in the comparative comfort of a recess.

If a letterbox is fitted it should conform to Post Office standards in and addition should have a spring on the flap.

A bottomless steel cage may be fitted to prevent attacks on the internal locks or bolts. Steel boxes are available to reduce the risk of arson, but these should be constructed to prevent the theft of mail.

Fire doors can be very vulnerable as they are often subjected to abuse by employees, particularly during summer months for ventilation, creating a risk of 'sneak-in thefts'. Fire doors are often attacked so additional measures may be required. There are numerous fire door locking and warning mechanisms available, however, as they are subject to Fire Regulations advice should be obtained from a Fire Prevention as well as a Crime Prevention Officer.

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