Sliding Door and Window Locks
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Quick answer: Put a dowel or security (Charlie) bar in the sliding door track (Baltimore PD; Waco PD), keep the door from being lifted off its track (Seattle PD), and secure double-hung windows with pins or extra locks (Seattle PD).
⚠ Safety first:
- Keep at least one door or window per room usable as a quick fire exit; don’t let security hardware block escape (Seattle PD).
- Use the right screws and drill bits, and wear eye protection when drilling.
- If something feels wrong or you see suspicious activity, call 911 (Baltimore PD).
Steps: easiest & free first
- Drop a dowel in the trackFREE
A broomstick or dowel cut to fit the inside track blocks the door (Baltimore PD). - Add a security barSHOP
A Charlie bar mounts at mid-height (Waco PD). - Stop the liftSHOP
Sliding doors should be secured against being lifted out of the frame (Seattle PD); anti-lift blocks help. Renters: ask before drilling. - Pin windowsSHOP
Pins or extra locks on double-hung windows (Seattle PD). - Limit openingsFREE
Waco PD suggests securing open windows so they open no more than 6 inches. - Keep a fire exitFREE
Make sure bars come out quickly (Seattle PD).
⚠ When to call a pro: a cracked or split door frame; locks or doors damaged in a break-in (report to police first); doors that don’t fit their frames; and any hardwired lights, doorbells or cameras that need new wiring; that’s a job for an electrician (see breakers and outlets). Renters: ask your landlord before changing locks or drilling. Renting? See what you can fix vs. call your landlord.
Helpful supplies
| Item | Why | |
|---|---|---|
| Sliding door security bar | Blocks forcing | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
| Window pin locks | Secures double-hung windows | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
Generic categories only; check the product label and your home’s needs before buying.