Burglary is a serious crime that can lead to devastating consequences for your family and your home. Burglars are opportunists and will enter your home and take what they want, including valuable items like cash., jewelry, watches, electronics, designer clothes, and accessories. Some will even come looking for your personal documents, such as identification cards, ATM cards, and title deeds.
Although there’s no way to prevent burglary completely, Home-security.com offers steps you can take to lessen your chances of being a victim of a break-in.
If you want to protect yourself from burglaries, here are some tips:
The Burglary Basics
- Lock all doors and windows when you leave your home. Use deadbolt locks on exterior doors, especially those open onto an unsecured area such as a porch or patio.
- Install a peephole in the front doors to see who’s outside before opening them.
- Avoid leaving anything valuable visible through windows. Consider placing valuables in a safe deposit box at your bank. If you have valuable items that cannot be moved, like large electronics or jewelry, consider having them insured by your homeowner’s insurance policy.
- Don’t hide keys under mats or in flowerpots; instead, keep them locked up inside your home so they won’t accidentally fall into the wrong hands or go missing if someone breaks into your house.
Don’t Tempt a Thief
- Don’t post details on social media about where you’re going on vacation — it might give thieves an idea of when your home will be vacant for long periods
- Do not keep cash in the house
- Always lock your garages and garden sheds
- Cover windows in the garage and basement with drapes
- Never leave messages like “Gone shopping” for your family on your door.
Install a Modern Security System
It’s the most effective way to protect your home. Ensure your alarm system is monitored and has an emergency contact number. Don’t rely solely on electronic security systems, like door and window sensors or video surveillance cameras. They may not be enough to deter criminals and may not provide sufficient evidence for prosecution.
In addition, ensure to install cameras in visible areas. The cameras are a great way to deter burglars from targeting your home. They can also help police catch perpetrators after a break-in. A sign that says, “a camera system protects this house,” also communicates that you’re aware of your surroundings and can protect yourself.
Join a Neighbourhood Watch Group
Consider joining a neighborhood watch group if you live in an area with many homes. These groups are neighbors who want to keep their community safe by reporting suspicious activity to the police. You can find out if a neighborhood watch group is in your area by calling your local police station or checking your city government’s website.
Always have a Plan!
The best way to prevent burglary is to take the necessary precautions. You can’t stop a burglar from breaking into your house if you don’t know how to recognize the signs of burglary. The most important thing is to be aware of your surroundings and always think ahead about what could go wrong and plan appropriately.
