As homeowners, one of our worst fears is coming home to find that we have been burglarized. Not only does it leave us feeling violated, but it can also result in the loss of valuable possessions and an increase in insurance premiums. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent your home from being targeted by burglars. In this blog post, we will discuss some effective ways to secure your property and protect your family.

The first line of defense against burglaries is ensuring that all doors and windows are properly secured. Install deadbolt locks on exterior doors and make sure they are locked at all times. Sliding glass doors should have a secondary lock or bar installed to prevent them from being forced open. Windows should be equipped with locks as well, and consider installing window sensors that trigger an alarm if opened while the system is armed.

Motion Sensor Lights

Burglars prefer dark areas where they can go unnoticed. Installing motion sensor lights around the perimeter of your home can deter potential intruders by illuminating their presence. Place these lights near entry points such as doors, windows, and garages.

Invest in a Security System

A monitored security system provides an extra layer of protection for your home. Choose a system that includes features like door and window sensors, motion detectors, and surveillance cameras. Many modern systems even offer smartphone integration, allowing you to monitor your home remotely and receive alerts when activity is detected.

Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Expensive electronics, jewelry, and other valuables should not be visible through windows or doors. Store these items in a safe place, such as a hidden safe or safety deposit box. If possible, avoid displaying expensive purchases, like new televisions or computers, in front of windows until they have been moved to a more secure location.

Use Visible Deterrents

Yard signs and decals indicating that your home is protected by a security system can help discourage would-be thieves. Similarly, placing “Beware of Dog” signs around your property may deter burglars who fear encountering a protective pet.

Strengthen Garage Door Security

Garage doors are often overlooked when it comes to home security. Make sure your garage door has a sturdy lock, and never leave it open when you're not present. Consider investing in a garage door opener with rolling code technology, which changes the access code each time the door is opened, making it difficult for thieves to gain entry using stolen remote controls.

Trim Landscaping

Overgrown trees and shrubs provide cover for burglars attempting to break into your home. Regularly trim back any vegetation that could conceal an intruder, especially near windows and doors. This not only improves visibility but also removes easy hiding spots for criminals.

Get To Know Your Neighbors

Establishing relationships with your neighbors can significantly reduce the risk of burglary. They can keep an eye on your property when you're away and alert authorities if suspicious activity is observed. Additionally, participating in neighborhood watch programs encourages community involvement in crime prevention efforts.

Create the Illusion of Occupancy

Burglars are less likely to target homes that appear occupied. When leaving for extended periods, create the illusion of occupancy by setting timers on interior lights, stopping mail delivery, and having someone mow the lawn or shovel snow if necessary.

Be Smart About Social Media

Sharing vacation plans and check-ins on social media platforms can inadvertently advertise your absence to potential burglars. Wait until after returning home before posting about your trip online, and limit the amount of personal information shared publicly.

By following these tips, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of your home becoming a target for burglars. Remember that securing your property requires ongoing effort and vigilance – stay proactive in maintaining your home's defenses against theft.

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