Security Measures to Deter Burglars - Nine Important Home Security Tips to Keep You and Your Family Safe
Most often we think we are not at risk of being victims to burglary or there is nothing we could do to lessen the risk of home break-ins. I would urge all of us to think again, because if there was an opportunity to invade your home, no matter who you are or where you live, burglars would always take the chance.
Burglaries are considered “crimes of opportunity” because the criminal would always look for an easy way to get into your home, either through unlocked doors, opened garages, opened windows, etc.
There must be a personal commitment and determination to deter burglars and make them think twice before trying to enter your home. Fortunately, there are practical security measures one could take to make such intrusion difficult for burglars. These include the following vigilant measures:
Secured Doors and Windows
- The first line of defence in your home’s security is having solid main doors with high quality grade locks.
- Front doors must be secured with quality locks and a slide bolt penetrating the upper or lower doorframe.
- Sliding glass doors are especially vulnerable if they do not have proper burglar proof shields behind them.
- A snug-fitting dowel (a piece of cylindrical wood - similar to a broom handle) fitted in the lower half of the door would also prevent doors from being easily broken.
- Ensure that doors and windows are not easily penetrated, at least not in a short time to allow you an opportunity to call for help.
A Loud Dog
Another good and cheaper line of defense is to have loud dogs. Dogs are not only man’s best friend, but could also be a burglar’s worst enemy. In fact, research indicates that most burglars avoid houses with dogs. Burglars do not want to be noticed, seen or caught. Even small noisy dogs could be effective deterrent to burglars.
A Home Security System
If you want something that not only makes noise to deter intruders, but also calls for help, consider installing a home security system. Home security systems detect intrusion, set off alarms, and also notify security service providers of imminent intrusion. If you have valuables or there are rampant burglaries in your area, a home security system could be a good option for you. You may do some online research and check with local alarm system companies to find the best system for your needs.
Motion Sensor Lights
Installing sensor lights, which turn on when they detect motion, is a great way to illuminate portions of your property. Sensor lights would come on as soon as someone enters under cover of darkness as a burglar would. Outside lighting is one of the cheapest and most effective deterrents to crime. Motion sensor lights give you the ease of having lights come on automatically.
Surveillance Cameras
A video surveillance system could be a bit costly, but could also help you sleep better at night. Installing a video security system could give you peace of mind and act as a deterrent to burglars, especially when you are on vacation. If you cannot afford the whole system, think about putting up a “dummy” camera or two to give the illusion of protection. Installing a “dummy” camera could intimidate a burglar, but cannot provide evidence if a burglary occurs.
Protection Warning Signs
It is also believed that making public your security arrangements is deterrent enough. If you have a dog or a home security system, share that information with signage on your fence, wall, door, or window. Letting a burglar know you are well protected makes you less of a target. It is important to look at your home from a burglar’s point of view. Burglars who think they might be seen or caught would think twice before targeting your house.
A Trimmed and Tidy Yard
Untrimmed trees and shrubs provide good hiding places for burglars and could obscure their entry into your home. To get a better sense of what this suggests, stand out on your front sidewalk and take an objective look at your house. Do you have trees or shrubs providing hiding places for someone? If so, consider trimming branches of the trees up to six feet from the ground and shrubs down to below window sills. A bushy lawn, could also indicate to a burglar that you might be away on vacation, or simply away on business for a long period of time. Consider getting someone to mow your lawn if you are going to be out of town for more than two weeks.
The Appearance that ‘Someone is Home’
Burglars learn your routine, and when there is a break in that routine, it is a signal that your home is clear for a break-in. With that in mind, your home must appear occupied even when you are away. To accomplish this, use motion-sensor lights and timers on your radio and TV to simulate occupancy and create the illusion that you are home. Anything you could do to make your home look occupied while you are away is a good thing; and timed electronics are great for that. Alternatively, ensure that there is someone at home all the time.
Helpful Neighbours
In addition to making your home look lived-in while you are away, simulating occupancy could get tricky. The good news is, you could solicit help from your neighbours. You should ask a trusted neighbour to park their vehicle at your gate occasionally while you are out of town.
Surely a good combination of some of the above points at your home would keep you free from burglars as they suspect someone is always watching. Good Luck!