Burglary Prevention Tips From the Pros: Advice from Ex-Burglars
If you think burglars wouldn’t break in your home and steal your things, you’re wrong. Burglary rings work in every type of neighborhood, and they often target suburban subdivisions because residents tend to be less security-conscious. Victims of a home burglary suffer, on average, losses totaling more than $2,000, the FBI reports.
Whether you live in a metro area, gated community or a lone house in the country, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of being burglarized. Here are some good, common-sense tips for home safety from former home burglars:
Always Make It Look Like You’re Home
Never leave your home for an extended period of time without finding a neighbor or friend to make it look like you’re still home. Have them bring in the mail and newspapers, get flyers off the door and make tracks in the snow after a fresh snowfall. Get a timer to turn on lights and the TV at random times of the day.
Keep Windows Locked at All Times
Lock your windows during the day and at night. It only takes a minute for a burglar to sneak in, especially if you’re involved in watching a movie or doing laundry in the basement.
Take Advantage of Technology
Get an enhanced protection package, including video cameras and remote home automation. According tohttp://www.securitycompanies.com, long-distance wireless access enables you to simulate someone at home, even if you’re miles away. And the best alarm in the world only works if you arm it every time you leave home.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
Burglars hate nosy neighbors and love neighborhoods where everyone minds his or her own business. Offer to watch your neighbors’ home when they go on vacation, in exchange for them doing the same for you.
Put the Dog to Work
Consider getting a large dog. Even if your dog hasn’t had a day of guard-dog training, just the sight of a shepherd or Doberman can be enough to make a burglar think twice.
Hire Reputable Help
Never hire a stranger going door-to-door to do your yard work or wash your windows. You may feel as if you’re doing someone a favor when he can’t find a job, but what you’re really doing is giving him the ideal opportunity to study your property up close.
Don’t Overshare Online
Don’t make it easy on criminals by announcing your vacation on Facebook or other social media sites. While you’re bragging about your family’s upcoming week in St. Thomas, thieves are looking up your address and checking out your property before you even leave town.
Secure the Safe
Thieves won’t spend the time to break into a safe, but if you have a small, portable model they will grab it on their way out and open it later. Bolt your safe to the floorboards or chain it to a permanent part of the building instead of simply trying to hide it.
Anyone can be the victim of a burglary no matter where they live. Your best defense is to make your property the least-inviting one on the block. Burglars are all about the quick and easy job. If it looks like too much work to rob you, they’ll move on to someone else’s house.
Share this:
Category: Home Improvements
