10 Ways to Prevent Home Break-Ins
Securing your home can keep your family safe from burglaries. While you may just lock your doors at night, home break-ins are 6% more likely to occur during the day. They often happen when you’re at work or running errands. Thankfully, with today’s technology, there are many ways to monitor your home. Here are 10 tips for preventing home break-ins.
1. Add a Home Security System
Home security systems alert you if there is any suspicious activity around your property. It also provides you with video evidence if an incident does occur. Make sure your cameras are visible to deter thieves from entering your home. If the device also has built-in sirens, this can draw attention and scare away intruders. Also, just adding a security sign may cause burglars to think twice.
Consider buying a smart security system. This allows you to control the device from your phone. It also comes with features, such as door and window sensors and motion detectors. You can even upgrade your device to include entryway locks and garage door openers.
For those on a budget, DIY security systems are a suitable option. These come in kits containing safety features, such as cameras and motion detectors. The devices are also easy to install. Another benefit is that you can add additional components as your needs change. However, a standard system may only support one or two wireless protocols.
2. Trim Your Landscape
Burglars often use your bushes and trees as hiding places. So, trim your trees to expose potential intruders. Also, consider planting thorny shrubbery around key entry points. Barberry or blackthorn plants are good options because of their prickly edges. Bamboo is another good choice since it provides a dense barrier.
You may even want to build a fence around your yard for extra protection. Make sure the wall is tall enough and made from durable material. When you’re outside trimming, remove any ladders or tool kits from your lawn. This can prevent a thief from using them to gain easy access to your home.
3. Purchase Motion-Detector Lighting
Install outdoor lights around your entryways and darker areas. This can help deter intruders by drawing attention to their activity. The bright glow may even distract them from their original objective. Also, having well-lit spaces can make an intruder believe someone is home.
Consider using LED light bulbs for their energy efficiency and longer lifespan. They can even save you about $225 in energy costs. Another thing to keep in mind is the type of power source you want to use. There are three main types: battery-operated, wired, or solar-powered. To choose the best option, consider the climate and where you want to place the light.
4. Secure Your Garage Door
Your garage door is an easy entry point for intruders. This is why you want to make sure it’s properly secured. One of the ways to do this is to get a smart opener that has a rolling code. This system rotates through millions of different passwords, making it difficult to hack. Also, consider installing frosted glass on your windows for more privacy.
5. Secure Entry Points
When leaving your home, make sure all your doors are locked and your windows are closed. To secure your entryways, install deadbolt locks. Also, consider upgrading to smart locks and adding a video doorbell.
Keep in mind that windows can be easy entrance points for thieves. Consider installing metal bars or grilles to lower the chances of forced entry. You can also cover your windows with a protective film, such as shatterproof glass, to provide an extra layer. This can prevent an intruder from breaking the glass to get inside. Also, install window stops and alarms.
6. Act Like You’re Home
Burglars are more likely to enter a home if they think it’s empty. So, when you’re away, leave a light on. Also, consider investing in smart lights you can adjust from your cell phone. If you’re only away for the day, turn on the television loud enough to be heard outside. This can trick an intruder into thinking someone is home.
Suppose you’re going on vacation and have a trusted neighbor to collect your mail. Letting your mail pile up is a clear sign you’re out of town. Also, ask if they could open and close your blinds throughout the day.
Another way to make your home appear occupied is to leave a car in the driveway. Before leaving for the trip, scatter around a few toys or an open book to give the illusion someone is home. Also, remember to give your spare key to the neighbor. Thieves often check common hiding spots, such as under a mat or a plant.
7. Install Smart Lights
You can control smart light devices remotely from your phone and switch them on and off even when you’re not home. This can trick thieves into believing someone is at the house. Smart lights are also energy-efficient, saving money on your utility bills.
8. Create an Outdoor Pathway
Instead of having open space for cars to park, create a clear path to direct traffic. To do this, add stones or wood planks to frame your driveway. Using your landscaping to create a controlled visible area can give you the upper hand. Also, you’re more likely to hear intruders’ footsteps. Consider using pea gravel for its durability and stylish appearance. It even comes in a variety of colors.
9. Upgrade Your Front Door
Your door is one of the main entry points for intruders. In fact, 34% of burglars enter through the front door, so consider replacing your doorway with a modern one. Steel doors are an excellent option for their durability and affordability.
While replacing your entryway, also upgrade your locks. Consider adding deadbolts or electronic locks. Look for the American National Standards grade level two or higher. Smart locks are also a great option if they’re within your budget.
10. Add Window Treatments
Burglars often will enter a house if they see valuable objects inside or assume no one is home. Adding blinds and curtains can help obstruct their view, and remember to keep them closed. Consider adding linen or silk shades, which provide privacy and a sense of style. You can also install black-out curtains.
How to Protect Your Home From Intruders
Home break-ins can be a scary experience. However, there are ways to prevent them. Remember to follow these tips to keep your family and property safe against home break-ins.