If you’re feeling unsafe in your home, perhaps it’s time to beef up your security by changing your locks and following these 7 home security tips.
In the United States, burglary accounts for about one-quarter of all property related crimes. If you don’t want your home to be included in that statistic, there are some things you need to know.
Though it might seem like there isn’t much you can do to prevent break-ins, there is. Here are 7 home security tips to keep your home safe from would-be intruders.
1. Keep Valuables Obscured
The best deterrent is to simply not make yourself an attractive target for criminals. For example, if you have an expensive home entertainment center, you probably shouldn’t have it prominently displayed in a highly visible window.
You obviously don’t want to let fear dictate how you arrange your home, so if you do have visible valuables, close your curtains at night. Basically, use common sense on this front and you’ll be good.
2. Don’t Hide a Key
Though it’s tempting to hide a spare key somewhere, you should avoid it. Everyone knows this trick, and that includes criminals.
Getting locked out of your house is no fun, but it sure beats getting your belongings stolen. If you absolutely have to hide one, at least try picking unconventional spots.
3. Get Motion-Sensing Lights
This is a cheap and easy insurance policy against burglary. Burglars generally operate under the cover of darkness and want to avoid confrontation. It often just takes a small deterrent to scare them off.
You can install these around any vulnerable entry points. The garage, front door, and prominent windows are all good places to put them.
4. Don’t Let the House Appear Empty
If you’re going to be gone for an extended period, it’s crucial you don’t make it clear that no one is home. There are a few things you can do to achieve this.
For one, having a friend housesit is the most surefire bet. That way, your house doesn’t just appear occupied, it actually is.
Short of that, having someone stop by daily to check on it and occupy it briefly is a good idea. If you can’t arrange this, do things like leave a few lights or television on to create the illusion of someone being home.
5. Get Quality Locks
Chances are, your locks aren’t up to snuff. That’s why changing locks should be standard practice.
Also, don’t just stop at door locks. Getting quality window locks is a key component of a safe home. Windows are a popular point of entry for burglars, so doubling down on window safety is wise.
6. Use Security Decals
Even if you don’t have a security system, it doesn’t hurt to lie. Burglars want an easy target, so prominently displaying home security decals is sometimes all you need to keep them at bay.
7. Get a Home Security System
While this is the most expensive option, it’s also the most obvious and foolproof. Plus, there are plenty of affordable options these days that you can install yourself.
Even though it can seem like a pain, getting a home security system is the most surefire insurance against break-ins.
These Home Security Tips Will Keep You Safe
By following these simple home security tips, you can seriously reduce your chances of becoming the victim of a break in. There’s no reason you need to become a statistic.
If you’re ready to take action, don’t wait. Changing your locks is an easy first step. Get that process started today!
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