There are too many criminals that are interested in breaking into anyone’s home. Although, that does not mean people can not do anything about it. The first step to prevent a burglary is to eliminate the opportunity itself. Even if many homeowners only worry about nighttime security, the majority of thieves actually do the crime during daylight hours when everyone is at school, work, or simply running errands.
It would be important to take all precautions possible during the night, day, and at any given time you leave your house, and ensure your home stays safe. If you are unsure of where to start, this article is for you.
These tips on how to protect your home from intruders might be proven useful and assist you to stop the possibility of such occurrence ever from happening.
Where to Start?
The first thing to work on is to stop helping the burglar to stroll in through the front door. Believe it or not, 34 percent of o them do.
Start by inspecting all of your exterior doors so you could make sure the door frames are strong enough. Also, it would be wise to check if the hinges are protected, and in case that your door has a small mail slot, that intruder is not able to reach through it and unlock the door. For instance, roller shutters are the perfect example for making such an idea impossible. As experts at Smarter Outdoors would say, roller doors can be tailor-made and can accommodate your specifications if necessary. Also, if installed accurately, they can ensure high performance. Of course, protection as well. Another piece of advice is that in case you are moving into a new residence that someone else used to live in, change the locks.
That way you will stop the possibility of strangers walking in.
How to Reinforce Your Windows
As mentioned, doors are the most common entry points for burglars. The same would apply to windows. Sadly, manufactured latches on windows are not always as effective as intended.
Another option is to add extra security with locks or even with key-operated levers. Other things you could do are:
- To reinforce the glass window with security film
- To install glass break sensors
- To add bars
- To plant prickly plants under windows
Own a Safe
Your valuables can be secured in a home safe. Consider having your safe bolted to the floor in case that it is small in size and not mounted. Many burglars will simply take it with them in case it is not attached. Your passcode or combination should only be given to a trusted person in case of any emergencies.
What About the Keys?
It would be wise not to label your personal keys. Also, the spare ones should not be hidden outside. You could be in big trouble if you lose them and they have a label on them. That is especially the case if your wallet and ID are with them. Intruders look under mats to find hidden keys.
As an alternative, leave a spare key with a neighbor you trust. In case that you live in a rural area, and your closest neighbor is not near, the combination of a lockbox in a discreet area of your property is a great option.
A Home Security System
It would be wise to consider purchasing a home security system. Some have countless features. Particularly valuable ones to have are sensors for exterior doors, windows, outdoor motion detectors, outdoor alarms that can alert the neighbors in case of intrusion, and as well old school security cameras. No matter what you decide, it would be advisable to select a set of features that best fit your needs.
Also, always make sure that the brand is well-known. Though it may look like it is inconvenient to have to set the system every time you leave the house, make sure to make such actions a part of your habits. Intruders are often aware that this responsibility is neglected most of the time.
Burglary and home invasion might never really be entirely eliminated from society. Although, that being said, these threats should not make you live your life in fear. There are ways to figure out how to secure your home and bring chances of burglary to a minimum.
These tips can get you started. The most important thing is to relax since you do not need to do everything all at once. Define which strategies are most important to you, and afterward, make a plan to add everything else later. Taking action, as well as being aware of all potential risks will be the best way to keep your home safe.