- Every 25.7 seconds, a burglary occurs in the US.
- Burglars seek out easy targets and avoid homes with security measures in place.
- Homeowners can take simple but effective measures to protect their homes from burglaries.
- Measures include changing door locks, maintaining garage doors, and installing alarm systems, which can help deter burglars.
- Joining neighborhood watch programs, trimming trees and bushes, and being mindful of social media posts can also contribute to home security.
Home is where the heart is; as a homeowner, it’s crucial to ensure that your haven remains safe and secure at all times. With burglaries being a common occurrence, it’s not enough to rely solely on the security provided by the neighborhood watch.
You must take matters into your own hands and fortify your home against intrusion. This blog post will discuss some burglary prevention tips that will help keep your dwelling safe from burglars.
The Prevalence of Burglaries
According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, a burglary occurs every 25.7 seconds in the United States. With such alarming statistics, homeowners need to take all necessary precautions to protect their property and loved ones.
According to the UCR, most burglaries are committed through forcible entry, with around 59% of incidents involving some form of forced entry. This means that simply locking your doors and windows may not be enough to deter burglars.
How Burglaries Happen
Burglars are often opportunistic and will look for easy targets. They typically seek out homes with minimal security, unoccupied houses, or those with valuable goods visible from the outside.
They also tend to avoid homes with security systems, well-lit entrances, and signs of occupancy. This is why making your home appear less vulnerable and more secure is essential.
Home Security Measures
Thankfully, there are simple but effective measures you can take to protect your home from burglaries. Some of them are:
Change Door Locks
Changing the locks on all exterior doors and windows is essential after you move into a new home. You have no idea who might have copies of the old keys, including the previous owner, their friends, or family members. Changing the locks will curb unauthorized access to your home and offer you peace of mind. Opt for high-quality deadbolts and padlocks with hardened steel shackles when choosing new locks.
Maintain Garage Doors
Garage doors have become a common entry point for burglars, so it’s vital to maintain them properly. Ensure that your garage door opener remote is never left in plain sight, and always keep the garage door closed when it’s not in use.
Consider hiring professional garage door maintenance services to inspect and repair any damaged or malfunctioning parts regularly. This will not only keep your garage secure but also increase the lifespan of your garage door.
Install an Alarm System
Alarm systems are an excellent way to deter burglars. When they notice the presence of a security system, most burglars tend to avoid the property altogether. Modern alarm systems come with various features, including motion sensors, door and window sensors, and cameras. There are also intelligent alarm systems that you can control remotely from your smartphone.
Install Security Cameras
Security cameras are an effective way to record burglars’ activities and provide video footage that can be used as evidence to bring perpetrators to justice. Camera technology has come a long way, and you can now install high-definition (HD) cameras that record footage in real time. You can also opt for cameras equipped with night vision to capture intruders’ activities in areas with low lighting.
Join Neighborhood Watch Programs
One of the most effective ways to curb burglaries in an area is to form a neighborhood watch program. A neighborhood watch program involves concerned residents who investigate suspicious activities and report them to the authorities. This program is more effective when organized and backed by law enforcement.
Trim Trees and Bushes
Overgrown trees and bushes near your home can provide cover for burglars to hide while attempting to break in. Regularly trimming these plants will eliminate any potential hiding spots and make seeing any suspicious activity around your home easier.
Be Mindful of Social Media Posts
In this digital age, being mindful of what you post on social media is essential. Avoid posting about your vacation plans or expensive purchases, as this can let potential burglars know when your home will be unoccupied and what valuables they can find inside. It’s best to share such information with close friends and family privately.
Wrapping Up
As a homeowner, keeping your home safe from burglars should be a top priority. You can start by following the five burglary prevention tips discussed in this blog post, including changing your locks, maintaining your garage doors, installing an alarm system, installing security cameras, and joining neighborhood watch programs. Ensuring your home’s safety will provide peace of mind and protect your family. Do not hesitate to take preventive measures before it is too late.
