The Use of Locks in Physical Crime Prevention aims to present the minimum necessary material that will enable the proper use of locks as security devices. The lock is the most widely used security device. Wherever people have an interest in securing their persons or property against intruders, some sort of locking devices have been developed and used. The effectiveness of any locking system depends on a combination of interrelated factors that are involved in the design, manufacture, installation, and maintenance of the system. A security specialist needs to understand the weaknesses and strengths of the various systems, and know how each must be used to achieve maximum benefit from its application. This goal requires a thorough understanding of the inner workings of the various types of locks, which this book presents. This book is presented in layman's language and does not require an extensive background in security. However, the technological detail contained in this book will be of use to professionals in the field.