Simple Techniques for Securing Your Home Against Burglary
Welcome to your home, the place where you and your loved ones should feel the safest. Unfortunately, with burglary becoming increasingly common, that sense of security can easily be shattered. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, there were an estimated 1.1 million burglaries in the United States in 2019, resulting in over $3 billion in property losses. The good news is that there are simple techniques you can implement to secure your home and prevent potential burglars from breaking in. In this article, we’ll explore these techniques in detail and provide you with actionable tips to safeguard your home against burglary.
Understanding the Mindset of Burglars
Before we dive into the techniques for securing your home against burglary, it’s crucial to understand how burglars think. Contrary to popular belief, most burglaries aren’t planned; they are opportunistic crimes. This means that burglars typically target homes that appear to be easy targets, such as unoccupied homes or homes without proper security measures. They also tend to avoid homes with visible security systems, which are more challenging to break into.
Another important factor to consider is the time of day. Most burglaries occur during the day when homeowners are away at work. However, don’t let this lull you into a false sense of security. Nighttime burglaries are also prevalent, especially during summer months when windows are left open for ventilation.
Simple Techniques for Securing Your Home Against Burglary
1. Invest in a Security System
The first step towards securing your home against burglary is investing in a quality security system. A security system has been proven to be the most effective deterrent against burglars. According to a study by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 83% of burglars said they would check for the presence of an alarm system before attempting a burglary, and 60% said they would choose another target if an alarm was present.
When considering a security system, opt for a professionally installed one with 24/7 monitoring. This ensures that the system is set up correctly and any alerts are immediately responded to. Additionally, choose a security system that integrates with your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your home even when you’re away.
2. Secure Your Doors and Windows
The most common entry points for burglars are doors and windows. Therefore, it’s crucial to make sure these areas are secure. Invest in quality locks for all your doors and windows, and ensure they are always locked, even when you’re at home. Consider adding deadbolts to your doors for an additional layer of security. Additionally, reinforce your doors and windows with protective film or bars to prevent them from being easily kicked or broken.
3. Install Outdoor Lighting
A well-lit home is a deterrent to burglars, as they prefer to work in the dark. Install outdoor lighting around your property, especially near entry points, such as doors and windows. Motion-sensor lights are a great option, as they are not only energy-efficient but also startle potential burglars and draw attention to your home.
4. Make Your Home Look Occupied
As mentioned earlier, most burglaries occur when homeowners are away from their homes. To prevent your home from being an easy target, make it appear occupied even when you’re not around. This can be as simple as setting timers for your lights and television to go on and off at specific times. You can also ask a trusted neighbor or friend to collect your mail and newspaper, so they don’t pile up and advertise that you’re away.
5. Don’t Leave Valuables in Plain Sight
Leaving valuable items such as jewelry, electronics, and cash in plain sight makes your home an attractive target for burglars. Make sure to keep these items well-hidden, or better yet, invest in a safe where you can store them securely. This not only protects your valuables but also prevents burglars from spending too much time in your home, increasing their chances of getting caught.
6. Be Mindful of Social Media
In today’s digital age, it’s become common to share details of our daily lives on social media. While this may seem harmless, it also makes your home vulnerable. Posting about your vacation plans or checking in at a location far from home alerts potential burglars that your house is vacant. Avoid sharing too much information or consider posting about your trip after you’ve returned.
7. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Having a good relationship with your neighbors can be invaluable in keeping your home safe. They can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity and alert you or the authorities. Additionally, consider joining a neighborhood watch program to work together with your neighbors to prevent crime in your area.
Securing your home against burglary doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By implementing these simple techniques, you can significantly reduce the chances of your home being targeted by burglars. Remember to always be vigilant and take every precaution to keep your home and your loved ones safe.
