A battery-operated light switch timer, launched at The Gadget Show Live recently, is the first of its type to be awarded the police-preferred Secured by Design accreditation.
With four out of five domestic burglaries happening when no-one is at home, the advice by police is to use an automatic light timer when the property is empty and in darkness – recommending in particular the Light Switch Timer product, designed and made by Essex-based company Switched On Products.
Company director Naiem Dakri says: “We’re delighted to be the first timed lighting product to gain the Secured by Design Police Preferred Specification. It shows that there was a real need for such a product and demonstrates its high quality and capabilities.”
The battery-operated timer can be used in any living space which gives off the most light, to deter would-be intruders. It works by sliding a cradle over the wall light switch, into which is slotted the control unit, making it ready to operate in seconds. It includes programme off and on times for different days, and has been designed to operate effectively on all standard, single, double or triple gang light switches, and with all light bulbs, including LEDs and CFLs.
Alan McInnes, General Manager Secured by Design, adds: “Light Switch Timer is the first timed lighting device to be accredited to Secured by Design, impressing us with both with its innovation and ease of use.” The timer is now available from stores across the UK and online at www.lightswitchtimer.co.uk
And Videx Security, pictured, manufacturers of door entry and access control products in the UK has now received Secured by Design (SBD) accreditation on door entry and access control products suitable for private, commercial and local authority properties.
In the Secured by Design New & Refurbished Homes Design Guide 2013, Access Controlled Entrance Doors within buildings containing more than four flatted dwellings will be subject to increased Crime Prevention measures.
The door entry and access control products which have been tested to STS202 BR2 Level of Burglary Resistance and received Secured By Design approval include the following ranges which are suitable for low, medium and high rise properties:
When evaluating door entry and access control products, SBD say that it is important that they are carefully procured in line with project requirements and fully satisfy Secure by Design requirements. Subsequent inspections by Crime Prevention Design Advisors may lead to non conformance and replacement equipment sought.
