Bars on windows vs alarms/cameras/motion detector lighting

[Spitfire]

Just wanted to canvas the forum on this one as the Thais seem to think that these unsightly metal bars on the windows, inside or out, are mandatory.

Personally, I think they are unsightly, makes me feel like I'm in a cage and worry about there only being one exit in case of fire etc.

OK, on some houses, especially if on their own outside an estate may need them depend on the "locallity".

I, however, would be interested on views from being inside a modern estate with the usual security etc. Seems though, that all the Thais are totally convinced you need them.

Are the metal bars really necessary? Also, you can't clean the windows properly with them on. I would like to avoid putting them in but if it proves to be universally considered prudent then will do it.

I kind of like the idea of a camera or two, wifi alarm and a couple of motion detectors around the house which slam on a load of lights in the garden if is disturbed etc.

What's the genernal consensus folks? How much risk are you actually at in reality without the bars?

What are your recommended security solutions in this estate environment?

All comments welcome as I'm trying to decide whether to have the things put in or not.

Added a poll too. for any responses.

Edit - Typos and slight alteration to a poll option to give clarity

[cookmanchef]

One thing I can tell you is that they don't stop intruders getting into your house. I have seen numerous occasions where they just lifted off a few tiles and then dropped down into the house, especially the bungalow developments. They might deter a few but an alarm combined with motion sense security lights and CCTV cameras are a far better option in my view.

[chopsticks]

Always start off with physical visual security eg. good door locks and the necessary bars on windows, security door gates, good lighting etc.
If you don't have them and your neighbours do then guess who'll be prime target.
The usual tinted glass fitted to windows is very thin and next to useless anyway.

Alarms, cctv etc. are secondary measures that are useful after you've got the first line of defence sorted.
Entry via the roof is something that only an alarm can prevent unless you have some razor -wire up hidden up there !!

[Brit Jim]

Burglars will always find an entry point if there determined to get into your property. The roof appears to be a common entry point.

I would choose an alarm over bars. Bars are a visible deterrant inside or out. Good pair of bolt croppers / hacksaw/ sledgehammer would would assist any burglar in a speedy break in..

The alarm is the last resort. Once activated I think the majority of burglars would go unless their crazy drugged up. If they stay it gives you time to plan your attack / exit / stay put. The latter option in a secure
bedroom may be the best option. Reset the alarm and see what happens???

A good dog is an excellent resource. I know they can be poisoned easily but overall I would rate them. Also good for snake alerts in the garden!!!!

[Siani]

Just wanted to canvas the forum on this one as the Thais seem to think that these unsightly metal bars on the windows, inside or out, are mandatory.

Personally, I think they are unsightly, makes me feel like I'm in a cage and worry about there only being one exit in case of fire etc.

OK, on some houses, especially if on their own outside an estate may need them depend on the "locallity".

I, however, would be interested on views from being inside a modern estate with the usual security etc. Seems though, that all the Thais are totally convinced you need them.

Are the metal bars really necessary? Also, you can't clean the windows properly with them on. I would like to avoid putting them in but if it proves to be universally considered prudent then will do it.

I kind of like the idea of a camera or two, wifi alarm and a couple of motion detectors around the house which slam on a load of lights in the garden if is disturbed etc.

What's the genernal consensus folks? How much risk are you actually at in reality without the bars?

What are your recommended security solutions in this estate environment?

All comments welcome as I'm trying to decide whether to have the things put in or not.

Added a poll too. for any responses.

Edit - Typos and slight alteration to a poll option to give clarity

As said before on this subject, they will get in if they want to bars or no bars. I did come up with a thought, many readers may think it is silly idea, but what about this suggestion? In one room maybe a spare room etc, build a secret room/ cupboard, with lockable shutter, really secure. It must look like the wall with no handles or doors visible.This could hold your safe, valuables, pc even tv etc. I suppose if big enough it could even hold you! (maybe going overboard here, but useful if attacked!). On the outside of this section a mirror or picture could be hung as a bit of a decoy. I once rented a villa in the south of France, it had a visitors book...3 entries.."Lovely villa, great place shame we were bugled while using the pool!) The owners then installed this secret place where you could put passports valuables etc. I think it is a good idea, as long as you can keep it secret. An alarm is good for peace of mind. Bars do not have to be unattractive, look at some security screens doors on Australian websites.

[Brit Jim]

I did a quick survey on several streets on my developement last month concerning security. Spoke to about 30 residents Thai / Foreigners.

The majority of Thai s make their own security provisions and were not interested in forming a resident group /Neighbour hood Watch/ Employing security guards etc. Mai pen rai attitude as there would be a small cost involved.

Long term foreigners living out there supported the above. All slagging of security companies

All Holiday owners were keen to form resident groups and employ security guards.

Overall it depends on your situation and what you are comfortable with.... Can see both sides of the case

[Spitfire]

Thanks for the comments so far and can see there are different opinions on this one, nice one people, keep the opinion coming, much needed.

Siani, think that's called a "Panic room", usually for the very rich etc, plus to do it properly then it's expensive and would have to alter house blueprints etc.

[crazy88]

Bright lights and lots of noise. is always a good start How many of you who have a system with motion detectors thought about putting one in the roof space? That said I have not put mine up there yet as I I have 24 hr presence next door for the moment as they are still building. I will put it in when they are finished.

Crazy 88

[Takiap]

Well, I personally am not too fussed about security, but then again, there is usually someone at home sat all times. I for one will never have bars on my window, unless I were to end up in prison. In my opinion, the Thais are paranoid, hence he reason why many park their bikes indoors. Alarms are okay, given that they may scare intruders away. Cameras are basically a waste of time, because even if you get first class mug shots, the police won't even want to bother, not only here, but in Europe as well. After all, how can you expect the police to search for a face in a population of 60+ million?

To be honest, I don't think cameras even deter thieves. So, for me, I would go with a big dog, and a breed with a bad reputation. Remember as well, if a worker did break in, and your cameras got him, and the police did then find them, how can you be sure he ain't coming back to settle the score six months later when he gets out of the slammer?

Catching them may not be the best option, IMHO, hence why I say a dog is perhaps best. Security guards are a complete waste of money, even if they never sleep on the job. Which thief, in their right mind, is going to enter a development via the main gate?

Just things to think about. Oh yes, about a panic room - hell would freeze over before that ever happened. If you have to be so concerned about your safety, you must obviously be in the wrong country. Hell, I come from South Africa, and we don't even go that far over there, and that says something.

A gun? Would you use it? If you did you would be in some serious trouble, given that Farang are not permitted to own guns in Thailand. Once again, even back home I never owned one, simply because they are more trouble than they're worth.

Big dog - Rottweiler, Pitbull, etc.

[Lung Per]

a 220V electric fence should do it. Very effective.
ZAP!

[Arcadian]

Big dog - Rottweiler, Pitbull, etc.

Then all you have to worry about is the dog attacking you or your family.

[crazy88]

http://caninebreeds.bulldoginformation. ... -dogs.html

Whilst the Fila deserves the number 1 spot I would have thought the Shepherds would have come higher rated. I keep a medium sized soi dog which reacts faster than the alarm system so earns his fodder. Bang Keaw have a good reputation here although I have never kept one.

Crazy 88

[Siani]

Well, I personally am not too fussed about security, but then again, there is usually someone at home sat all times. I for one will never have bars on my window, unless I were to end up in prison. In my opinion, the Thais are paranoid, hence he reason why many park their bikes indoors. Alarms are okay, given that they may scare intruders away. Cameras are basically a waste of time, because even if you get first class mug shots, the police won't even want to bother, not only here, but in Europe as well. After all, how can you expect the police to search for a face in a population of 60+ million?

To be honest, I don't think cameras even deter thieves. So, for me, I would go with a big dog, and a breed with a bad reputation. Remember as well, if a worker did break in, and your cameras got him, and the police did then find them, how can you be sure he ain't coming back to settle the score six months later when he gets out of the slammer?

Catching them may not be the best option, IMHO, hence why I say a dog is perhaps best. Security guards are a complete waste of money, even if they never sleep on the job. Which thief, in their right mind, is going to enter a development via the main gate?

Just things to think about. Oh yes, about a panic room - hell would freeze over before that ever happened. If you have to be so concerned about your safety, you must obviously be in the wrong country. Hell, I come from South Africa, and we don't even go that far over there, and that says something.

A gun? Would you use it? If you did you would be in some serious trouble, given that Farang are not permitted to own guns in Thailand. Once again, even back home I never owned one, simply because they are more trouble than they're worth.

Big dog - Rottweiler, Pitbull, etc.

Yes agree, I do not like nasty dogs, I cannot see the point in them at all. Just lately there have been incidents where these ferocious dogs have mauled or worse killed children. I really am against them. The people that own them are normally not the best neighbours to have in the world! They may bite other people also. The secret is not to have many valuables, you need not worry too much then! When I come out to HH I want a simple life, not a load of belongings to worry about. I just think have somewhere safe to keep your passport etc.

[Siani]

Thanks for the comments so far and can see there are different opinions on this one, nice one people, keep the opinion coming, much needed.

Siani, think that's called a "Panic room", usually for the very rich etc, plus to do it properly then it's expensive and would have to alter house blueprints etc.

Well maybe a panic room was going too far for me. I did not really mean that I meant somewhere secret to hide passports, pc's etc when doing the shopping. I want a simple life, not having to worry about my belongings. I suppose the worry always is that people might think you are rich. If I am burgled and in the house at the time, they can take the lot, as long as they leave me and my family alone. Possessions can always be replaced. :)

[Siani]

Big dog - Rottweiler, Pitbull, etc.

Then all you have to worry about is the dog attacking you or your family.

Sorry put it in the wrong section


Yes agree, I do not like nasty dogs, I cannot see the point in them at all. Just lately there have been incidents where these ferocious dogs have mauled or worse killed children. I really am against them. The people that own them are normally not the best neighbours to have in the world! They may bite other people also. The secret is not to have many valuables, you need not worry too much then! When I come out to HH I want a simple life, not a load of belongings to worry about. I just think have somewhere safe to keep your passport etc.