Home security is a serious concern for many homeowners, especially in areas where crime rates are high. According to the FBI, an estimated 1.4 million burglaries in the United States in 2023 resulted in $3.4 billion in property losses. Burglars target homes that are easy to access, have low visibility, and have valuable items inside. Fortunately, here are some expert tips to deter burglars and secure your home.
These tips include installing alarms, cameras, and locks, improving lighting and landscaping, hiding valuables, and joining a neighborhood watch.
Before discussing the tips to deter burglary, consider why you should keep burglars away from your home.
Importance of Keeping Burglars Away from Your Home
The threat of burglary is a grim reality that homeowners must confront. However, you can reduce the risk of burglaries by implementing preventive measures and staying vigilant. This section will talk about the importance of keeping burglars away from your home.
It Helps Protect Your Loved Ones and Valuables: The most significant reason to keep burglars away from your home is to protect your loved ones and valuable possessions. Home is a sanctuary where families should feel safe and secure.
Knowing that your home is well-protected brings peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the important things in life.
With the right security measures, you will safeguard your family and ensure that your treasured possessions remain out of reach from potential intruders.
Keeping Burglars Away Prevent Financial Loss: Burglaries cause emotional distress and lead to significant financial losses.
The cost of replacing stolen items, repairing damaged property, and dealing with the aftermath of a break-in can be overwhelming. However, you can avoid the financial burden and the hassle associated with burglary by taking proactive measures to prevent burglaries, like installing security systems, reinforcing doors and windows, and using motion-sensor lights.
Burglary Free Home Gives Peace of Mind: Living in constant fear and anxiety about the security of your home can be incredibly stressful. It would help if you had effective security measures to create a sense of safety and peace of mind for yourself and your family.
Knowing that your home is protected prevents potential burglars and allows you to enjoy your daily life without the constant worry of a break-in.
Burglary Deterrence Means Reduced Risk of Home Invasion: Burglaries can quickly escalate into dangerous home invasions, putting the lives of occupants at risk. By keeping burglars away from your home, you decrease the likelihood of facing a violent encounter.
Measures like locking doors and windows, installing security cameras, and keeping your property well-lit can eradicate the risk of being a crime target.
It Helps Preserve Community Safety: The importance of keeping burglars away from your home extends beyond your safety. By securing your property, you contribute to the overall safety of your community.
Burglars often target neighborhoods with lax security measures, and by taking a stand against theft, you encourage others to do the same. Collaborating with neighbors, forming neighborhood watch groups, and sharing information can help create a safer environment for everyone.
Expert Tips to Deter Burglars and Secure Your Home
Some of the expert tips to deter thieves away from your home include:
Tip 1: Install a Home Security System
Installing a home security system is one of the most effective ways to deter burglars. A comprehensive system can include alarms, surveillance cameras, and motion sensors that detect unauthorized entry.
The availability of a security system can be a powerful deterrent because burglars won’t be targeting a home that is well protected.
Tip 2: Use Motion Sensor Lighting
Darkness provides cover for burglars, making it easier for them to go unnoticed. Installing motion sensor lighting around your property can illuminate any suspicious activity and deter potential intruders.
Motion sensor lights are cost-effective and increase the security of your home.
Tip 3: Secure Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are common entry points for burglars. Ensure all windows have sturdy locks, and reinforce them with security film or bars.
Install deadbolt locks on all external doors and ensure they are aligned and in good working condition. Ensure to lock your doors and windows when you leave your home, even if it’s just for a short period.
Tip 4: Reinforce Entry Points
In addition to secure locks, reinforce all your entry points. Door frames can be strengthened with metal or strike plates to prevent forced entry.
Reinforcing your windows with security film or laminated makes it difficult for burglars to break in. These simple measures can greatly enhance the security of your home.
Tip 5: Install Security Cameras
Security cameras are a powerful deterrent by capturing evidence of any suspicious activity. Install cameras around your property, such as entry points and areas with high-value items.
Ensure the cameras are visible to potential intruders to discourage them from attempting to break in. Furthermore, choose cameras with high-resolution capabilities to ensure clear footage if needed for investigations.
Tip 6: Use Timers for Lights and Electronics
When you’re away from home, creating the illusion that someone is there is important. Use timers to automatically turn on lights and electronics at different times throughout the day.
It can give the impression that your home is occupied, making it less appealing to burglars. Timers are inexpensive and easy to set up, providing an effective way to enhance your home security.
Tip 7: Keep Your Property Well-Maintained
An unkempt property can signal to burglars that the home is unoccupied or neglected. Regularly maintain your property by trimming bushes, mowing the lawn, and keeping the exterior clean and well-maintained.
Such a level of organization shows that the home is occupied and cared for, making it less likely to be targeted by burglars.
Tip 8: Get to Know Your Neighbors
A strong sense of community can impact home security. Take the time to get to know your neighbors and have a network of trust and support.
Neighbors can look out for each other, report unusual activity, and even watch your property while you’re away. So, build positive relationships with your neighbors for a safe environment.
Tip 9: Install a Safe for Valuables
Even with the best security measures, having extra protection for your most valuable belongings is wise. Install a home safe to secure important documents, jewelry, and other high-value items.
Choose a fire-resistant safe and securely bolt it to the floor or wall to ensure that even if a burglar gains access to your home, they won’t be able to steal your most prized possessions easily.
Tip 10: Use Signage to Deter Burglars
Sometimes, the appearance of security is enough to deter burglars. Place signs around your property indicating that you have a security system, even if you don’t.
Signs such as “Beware of Dog” or “24-Hour Video Surveillance” can make burglars think twice before targeting your home. Remember, the goal is to make your home appear less vulnerable and more trouble than it’s worth.
Tip 11: Secure Your Garage Space
Your garage presents another easy entry point for burglars if it is improperly secured. Ensure your garage doors have sturdy locks, and consider adding a security system specifically for the garage.
Have your garage locked at all times, even when you’re home. Additionally, avoid leaving valuable items, such as bicycles or tools, in plain view from the outside.
Tip 12: Don’t Advertise Your Absence
When you’re away from home for an extended period, it’s important not to advertise your absence. Do not publicly post your vacation plans on social media or share your travel itinerary.
Instead, inform trusted neighbors or friends about your absence and ask them to monitor your property. Keeping your absence discreet reduces the risk of your home becoming a burglar target.
Tip 13: Keep Your Curtains and Blinds Closed
Open curtains and blinds provide a clear view into your home, allowing potential burglars to assess the contents and layout. Keep your curtains and blinds closed when you’re not at home or during nighttime.
It prevents anyone from easily surveying your property, making it harder for burglars to determine if your home is a potential target.
Tip 14: Secure Your Mail and Packages
A pile of mail on your doorstep can signal that you’re not home, making your home vulnerable to burglaries. When you’re away, ask a neighbor or friend to collect your mail and packages, or consider putting a hold on your mail delivery.
Alternatively, you can install a secure mailbox or have packages delivered to a more discreet location to prevent them from becoming an invitation for burglars.
Tip 15: Install a Doorbell Camera
Doorbell cameras have become increasingly popular for capturing activity at your front door. These cameras let you see who is at your door, even when you’re not home.
They also record video footage, providing valuable evidence if there are suspicious activities or attempted break-ins. Doorbell cameras act as a deterrent by making it clear that your home is under surveillance.
Tip 16: Use a Smartphone App for Remote Monitoring
Take advantage of technology by using a smartphone app to monitor your home security system remotely.
Many security systems offer apps that allow you to monitor cameras, receive alerts, and control various aspects of your system from anywhere in the world.
With remote monitoring, you can always stay connected to your home and have peace of mind, even when you’re away.
Tip 17: Consider Getting a Guard Dog
Guard dogs help to protect homes and deter burglars. Their presence alone can make burglars think twice before attempting to break in.
If you’re considering getting a guard dog, research different breeds to find one that suits your lifestyle and provides the level of protection you desire.
Train dogs to ensure they are effective and well-behaved for deterrence and can tell between friendlies and hostilities.
Tip 18: Be Mindful of Social Media Posts
Social media can inadvertently inform potential burglars about your whereabouts and the status of your home.
Wait until you’re back home to share your experiences. By being mindful of what you post on social media, you reduce the risk of becoming a target for burglaries.
Tip 19: Keep Emergency Numbers Accessible
In case of an emergency or attempted break-in, it’s important to have emergency numbers readily available.
Keep a list of emergency contacts, including the local police department, fire department, and your home security company, in a visible and easily accessible location so that you can quickly reach out for help when needed, increasing your chances of a swift response.
Tip 20: Stay Vigilant and Report Suspicious Activity
Lastly, stay vigilant and report any unusual activity to the relevant authorities. If you notice unfamiliar individuals loitering around your property or unusual behavior in your neighborhood, notify the police.
Being an active and observant community member contributes to your neighborhood’s overall safety and security.
What to Do If Your House Is Broken Into
Discovering that your house has been broken into can be a distressing and overwhelming experience.
However, you must be calm and take immediate action to protect your property for your safety. Here are the steps to follow if your house is broken into:
Ensure Your Safety: If you are present during the break-in or return home to find signs of a burglary, prioritize your safety. Leave the premises immediately to a safe location, such as a neighbor’s house, while you assess the situation.
Do Not Enter: It’s crucial not to enter your home until it is safe. The intruders may still be present, or the damage caused during the break-in could make the structure unsafe. Contact the authorities and wait for their arrival before entering your home.
Call the Police:
- Dial emergency services and report the burglary.
- Provide them with all the necessary details, including your location, a description of the break-in, and any suspicious activities you may have noticed before or after the incident.
- Cooperate fully with the police and provide any information to assist them in their investigation.
Document the Scene:
- Once the police arrive, allow them to assess the situation and secure the area.
- While they conduct their investigation, take the opportunity to document the scene.
- Take photographs or videos of visible damage, stolen items, and other relevant evidence to help for insurance purposes and police investigations.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the burglary immediately. Ensure they have a detailed account of the incident and the items stolen or damaged to guide you through the claims process.
They cure Your Home: After the police have completed their investigation and given you the go-ahead to enter your home, take steps to secure it. Repair any damaged doors, windows, or locks to prevent unauthorized access. Upgrade your security measures by installing a system, motion-sensor lights, or reinforced doors and windows to deter future break-ins.
Review Your Security Measures: Use the burglary to evaluate your existing security measures and identify areas for improvement. Consider seeking advice from security professionals to protect your home against future incidents.
Inform Loved Ones: Reach out to your family members, friends, and neighbors to inform them about the break-in. They can offer support and watch for any unusual activities in the area. Additionally, inform your employer if any work-related items were stolen, as they may need to take appropriate action.
Seek Support: Experiencing a burglary can be emotionally draining. Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professionals if you need assistance coping with the aftermath. They can provide guidance, help you restore a sense of security, and offer reassurance during this challenging time.
Remember, each burglary is unique, and your steps may vary depending on the circumstances. However, following these general guidelines can ensure your safety, protect your property, and navigate the aftermath of a break-in more effectively.
Conclusion
Securing your home and deterring burglars are important to ensure your family’s safety and protect your valuable possessions.
If you can successfully implement the expert tips and strategies highlighted in this post, you will curb the risk of burglaries and create a secure environment for your loved ones.
Firstly, assess your home’s vulnerabilities and address them in the best way possible, like securing all entry points, like doors and windows, with high-quality locks, deadbolts, and reinforced frames. Additionally, installing a security system like motion sensors, cameras, and alarms can act as a strong deterrent to potential burglars.
Secondly, maintaining the appearance of an occupied home, even when you are away, is crucial, and it can be achieved by using lights, radios, and TV timers to create the illusion of someone being home.
Keeping your front and backyard well-lit, trimming shrubs and bushes, and having a well-maintained exterior can also discourage burglars by eliminating potential hiding spots.
Another effective strategy is establishing relationships with neighbors and forming a neighborhood watch program. By looking out for one another and reporting any suspicious activities, you create a united front against burglaries.
Sharing information about recent incidents or suspicious individuals can help the community stay vigilant and prevent potential break-ins.
In conclusion, deterring burglars and securing your home requires a multi-faceted approach, which combines physical security measures, maintaining the appearance of an occupied home, fostering community engagement, securing valuables, and utilizing modern technology.
By implementing the above expert tips and strategies, you will reduce the risk of burglaries and create a safe and secure home for you and your family.