No one likes the idea that their family and possessions could ever be at risk, which is why it is so important to protect your home from break-ins and theft. You may or may not feel at risk depending on where you live and how well you know your neighbourhood. Although it’s unpleasant to imagine that this crime could be committed against you or your loved ones, you should prepare for the possibility and increase your chances of staying safe. Here are a few useful tips to help you secure your home against intruders and burglars.
Blinds and Curtains
While this might seem like a small step, having good blinds or curtains is a great way to discourage potential intruders from entering your home. During the night or whenever you aren’t home, close the blinds or curtains so as to prevent anyone from the outside being able to see into your home. Not all robberies are planned in advance, and someone walking past might catch sight of your valuables through the window and make an impulse decision to steal from you. By making it impossible for anyone to see what’s in your house, you make it less likely that a chance burglary will occur. However, don’t leave curtains closed during the day as this is a common sign that burglars notice when searching for homes to rob. Be sure to also purchase good quality blinds, like those from Blindstyle that aren’t see through for the best protection.
Locks
It’s important to keep all doors and windows locked whenever you are not in your home or are asleep at night. If you need cool air to sleep, choose an air conditioner or fan instead of leaving your bedroom window open. Even when left ajar on the latch, a thief can pry open the window and enter your home without your knowledge. Upgrade your locks if they aren’t reliable – either by being too stiff for you to use effectively or too easily manipulated into opening without a key. Resist the temptation to leave a spare key hidden under a rock or in a plant pot as these are common places a thief will look before breaking in. Instead, choose a key safe that requires a passcode so that access is only granted to people you trust.
Doors
It isn’t just the locks that are important to protecting your house. The strength, material, and quality of your doors are vital in keeping out potential intruders. Avoid installing large pet flaps that can be used by thieves and make sure the hinges and frames are strong and work effectively; otherwise, someone might be able to break the door down. Don’t forget that your garage door is also essential in keeping you and your possessions safe, so take a look at up and over garage doors. Any entry point into your house has the potential to be made safer with a little bit of research and time.
Surveillance
It might seem like an extreme measure, but investing in a small security camera in a strategic location can make all the difference should a burglary occur. With the help of captured video, you are more likely to be able to bring your intruder to justice. There are devices and apps that let you know whenever someone has rung your doorbell. Use these technologies to your advantage.
Lights
Most thieves are less likely to target a place that is well lit as it prevents them from seeking cover in the shadows and getting away with their crime. Keep the exterior of your property well-lit or choose motion sensor lighting that only uses energy when it detects a moving presence. One downside of this latter option is that it can be irritating to you or your neighbours if the lights come on every time a cat or moth is detected.
Hidden Spots
It might be difficult, but this step requires you to think like a criminal. Walk up to your house and examine it for places in the front garden, driveway, or other outdoor areas that could potentially harbour a hiding thief. Make it difficult for people to hide on your property by making it more open and visible from the house, but with a high hedge or wall preventing people from the street being able to easily see in. If you no longer use that old shed, get rid of it. If the side of your house is dark and narrow, install a light to keep it from being a tempting hiding spot for a burglar.
Trusting Strangers
One of the most important parts of keeping your home safe is trusting who you let inside. Ask for identification if you don’t believe that someone is from the organisation that they claim to be, and even if they produce it, then don’t feel obliged to let them in. Scam artists and thieves sometimes disguise themselves as salespeople and other door-to-door workers in order to gain access to homes. Only let someone in if you trust them.