Tips to prevent a home burglary
Home burglaries occur every 14.6 seconds in the US and the average loss per burglary is $1,725. But by following these vital steps, you don’t have to be a victim of a home burglary.
1. Install secure door locks: You should have strong door locks installed on all doors including sliding glass ones. The best type of lock to have is Grade 1 (ANSI designation) deadbolt type lock. For added protection, decide to install locks with key control. This controls who has keys to your home and will stop someone getting unlawful entry through a copied key that was unwillingly provided by you. Other lock features to look for are: strong strike plates, saw resistant bolts, and captured key deadbolts.
2. Home security system:Home alarm systems come with a variety of robust features and can be very affordable for any budget. Those homes which have a home alarm system installed are 3 times less likely to be burglarized. Home security systems with monitoring service can protect your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and are one of the best ways in preventing home burglaries. If you can’t afford to have a home alarm system installed and monitored, consider just placing a home alarm sign in your front yard. Burglars generally won’t take the chance on whether or not you have a home alarm system if they see a sign.
3. Outdoor security cameras: For obvious reasons, thieves don’t want to be identified on camera by the police. Outdoor security cameras combined with a home alarm system can deter crime as well as identify potential suspects who try and rob your home. If you can’t afford a home security camera, a dummy camera which looks like a real security camera can be an excellent crime prevention device.
4. Trim your landscaping: Trim all shrubs near doors and walkways to prevent a place for a burglar to hide. If possible, plant bushes with thorns under all windows to make it harder for a thief to enter.
5. Have plenty of lighting: Ample lighting can be vital in preventing a home invasion. Keep your porch light on at night, and think about installing motion sensor lighting around the perimeter of your residence. Lighting around your landscaping and walkways can also lower your chances of being victimized. Strobe lights attached to a security system can also frighten burglars and help alert your neighbors of a potential break-in or emergency.
6. Keep windows closed: Burglars want easy access to your home and usually will find an open window to gain entry. Keep windows closed and consider using window stoppers on all your window jams. If you have a home alarm system, you can opt to have motion detectors attached to your windows for added security.
7. Secure tools and ladders: Some thieves will use tools such as hammers or saws found on your property to break doors and windows. Don’t leave ladders in plain view and secure all tools in your shed or garage.
Don’t make yourself an easy target for a burglar. Tactics such as a home security system,strong locks and security cameras can change a burglar’s mind and protect your home, valuables and family.
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