Door chains offer little extra security

Question: My mother always opens her door on a door chain. How secure are these devices?

Fourchalk: Most door chains don't offer any security because they are made of a very soft metal alloy and are usually supplied with very small installation screws. I often refer to door chains as "1950's technology."

Tell your mother to have a large door viewer installed. Door viewers are an inexpensive item that will offer excellent security for your mother's home.