ScottHope: Your shortcut for the task manager is fine, but the shorter shortcut is CTRL + SHIFT + ESC.
OK, seriously, how is CTRL + SHIFT + ESC shorter than CTRL+ALT+DEL? I believe they are both 3 keys.
Given my small hands, it is easier for me to hold the CTRL + SHIFT keys down with my left, while hitting the DEL with my right. Maybe your hands are different on your side of the pond.
Now, the ALT+F4 works great. The only problem I had was I tested it out while writing this reply and it closed all my tabs. Had to start over again.
It seems ALT-F4 is a 'hard" close and works great. Thanks!
BTW, about your having to leave your flat, I read that and had the vision of a dejected looking man, with the head of a cat, walking down the stairs, shoulders slumped and carrying a wilting house plant. It made me sad to read. I am glad you are back. I say, don the Hoperman outfit, ditch the plant and kick your neighbor's a$$. Oh, take pics.