According to the FBI, there were more than 1.116 million burglaries in the United States in 2019. That’s a lot of homes that were targeted by criminals!
Fortunately, there are some things homeowners can do to protect their property and reduce their risk of being a victim of burglary or another property crime.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some simple tips you can use to make your home less appealing to criminals and keep your family safe.
1. Install a security system.
When it comes to protecting your home from unwanted visitors, home security is one of the best investments you can make.
Not only will a security system deter criminals from targeting your home in the first place, but it will also provide peace of mind knowing that your home and family are protected even when you’re away.
There are a variety of different types of security systems available on the market, including DIY systems that you can install yourself.
No matter what type of system you choose, select one that includes motion-activated cameras, door and window sensors, and a loud alarm.
2. Keep your doors and windows locked.
This may seem like an obvious tip, but you’d be surprised how many people leave their doors and windows unlocked, especially during summer.
Make it a habit to check that all of your doors and windows are locked before you leave the house or go to bed for the night.
If you have young children, consider installing locks that are out of their reach to prevent them from accidentally letting someone into your home.
In addition to keeping your doors and windows locked, you should also keep your garage door closed and locked when you’re not home.
Criminals often target homes through the garage, so it’s important to take this extra precaution.
3. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight.
If you have valuables that are visible from the outside of your home, it’s time to move them to a more discreet location.
Leaving items like jewelry, electronics, and cash in plain sight is an invitation for criminals to break into your home.
Instead, keep these items in a safe or hidden away from windows and doors.
You should also avoid posting pictures of your valuables on social media. While you may think you’re just showing off your latest purchase to your friends, you could also give criminals a glimpse into what’s inside your home.
4. Install motion-activated lights.
Criminals prefer to operate in the dark, so one of the best ways to deter them from targeting your home is to install motion-activated lights.
Place these lights around the perimeter of your property and near any potential hiding spots, such as bushes or trees.
Not only will this make it more difficult for criminals to approach your home undetected, but it will also make it easier for you to see someone who is lurking around your property.
In addition to motion-activated lights, you should keep your home’s exterior well-lit at night.
Consider installing solar-powered lights along your walkway or driveway so that you never have to worry about changing a light bulb.
5. Get to know your neighbors.
One of the best ways to protect your home is to get to know your neighbors.
Not only will they be able to keep an eye on your property when you’re away, but they can also alert you if they see something suspicious.
In addition, having a good relationship with your neighbors will make it more likely that they’ll be willing to help you in the event of an emergency.
You should also make sure to let your neighbors know when you’ll be away from home so that they can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
Final Thoughts
Following these simple tips can protect your home from break-ins and property crimes.
While no security system is foolproof, taking these precautions can make your home a much less attractive target for criminals.
By taking the time to secure your home, you can give yourself peace of mind knowing that your family and belongings are safe.