No one should feel unsafe in their home, and fortunately, you don’t have to. Taking these steps can prevent burglaries and provide peace of mind.
1. Install Motion Sensors
Floodlights connected to motion sensors can scare away would-be thieves. Many of them won’t risk getting caught if they believe someone might see them.
2. Lock Doors and Windows
Make sure all entryways are secured. Locked windows and doors deter many thieves who wouldn’t risk intrusion by breaking and entering.
For sliding doors, use a dowel to prevent them from being opened from the outside.
3. Simulate Activity When You’re Away
Put your interior lights on a timer to give the impression that someone is home even when you’re not.
Better yet, get smart lighting that you can control on schedule or on demand.
If you go on vacation, have a neighbor collect your mail and/or newspaper, and avoid posting your travel plans on social media.
4. Clean Your Yard
Overgrown trees, bushes and hedges provide ideal hiding spots for intruders. Make sure you trim and prune them to prevent anyone from taking advantage of your landscaping.
There’s an added benefit: Well-pruned shrubs and trees are a hallmark of a carefully tended yard or garden. So maintaining them regularly will add curb appeal to your home.
5. Use Alarm Systems
Alarms and security systems can be a powerful burglary deterrent. Just the loud noise of a tripped alarm can scare away thieves.
And monitored alarms — available for a monthly fee — can alert police if they detect an intruder.
If you want even more protection, add cameras to your home security plan — most thieves wouldn’t risk being captured on video.
6. Change Your Locks
If you’ve just moved into a new home, change all the locks on your exterior doors. It’s better not to take the chance that old keys may still be accessible somewhere.
One option is to install smart locks and share the code with family and friends.
Read on for more advice, including how to prevent cybercrime.
