SBD at the Self-Build Belfast Show
The importance of having a high level of security built in to doors and windows was a key message presented by Secured by Design (SBD), the national police crime prevention initiative, at the Self Build & Improve Your Home Show at the Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast, between 17 and 19 February.
SBD Development Officer for Ireland and Scotland, Kenny McHugh, presented an advice session to members of the public about crime prevention on each day of the show.
He explained how SBD works with manufacturers to encourage them to attain a Police Preferred Specification for door and window security to make it more difficult for criminals to gain entry.
He showed video clips of doors being put through their paces during their testing stage and explained how SBD levels of security could lead to a burglar taking 15-20 minutes to break in, thereby greatly increasing the chances of being spotted and reported to police.
"It was all about the importance of designing security into the fabric of the building with our Police Preferred Specification to reduce crime and keep people safe. People were really interested in what we had to say and asked lots of good questions about how they could make their homes more secure," said Kenny.
SBD Senior Development Officer, Mick Reynolds, said: "It was great exhibiting in Northern Ireland for the first time in many years and we hope to be back very soon."
The SBD member companies exhibiting at the show were:
- Baskil Window Systems
- Garage Door Systems
- Icopal Limited
- Internorm Windows UK
- New World Developments (Apeer doors)
- Munster Joinery UK
- Rationel Windows UK
The show attracted 250 exhibitors and more than 20,000 visitors over the three days.
From left: Mick Reynolds, SBD Senior Development Officer, two officers from the Police Service Northern Ireland crime prevention branch and SBD Development Officer Kenny McHugh
SBD Development Officer Kenny McHugh giving a talk about the need for extra security