Home security is essential no matter where you live. Even in areas where crime rates are low, there may still be instances of break-ins, burglary, and other serious criminal activities. According to statistics, there are 2 5 million cases of burglary happening per year. Out of these numbers, 66% are break-in cases. Statistics further show that 65% of burglaries happen during the day, where people are mostly out of the house.
These numbers are proof that home security should always be given top priority. Looking for ideas on how to better secure your home? Below are some helpful tips.
Bolt the Doors and Windows
Doors and windows are popular entryways for burglars. To keep your home secure, make sure to lock your doors and windows during the night and even during the day when you are out of the house. Not all locks are secure, though. Some types are easy for burglars to break or bypass. To keep this from happening, make sure to only use deadbolts or locks that are sturdy enough to withstand forced entry.
Install Lights Around Your Property
Thieves and burglars do not like to be caught in the open. Lighting your property at night can help ward them away. Install lights in your backyard and front yard and along pathways and areas where there are outdoor structures. If possible, install lights around the entire property. If you are in doubt due to possible high costs in energy, you can use solar-powered lights. You may also use lights that are motion-activated and include a timer in their features.
Set Up Cameras
Security cameras are an excellent way to deter burglars and other criminals from breaking into your house. In fact, they are one of the most effective means to prevent break-ins. While CCTV or security cameras do not essentially eradicate crimes, they help monitor the activities of people and may ward off criminals who do not want to be caught red-handed while doing their criminal activities.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Burglars look for indications that a home is worth breaking in. If they see that your house has some things worthy of their efforts, they will likely be tempted to make an attempt on your property. As much as possible, do not give them any reason to think that breaking into your home is worth their time. Keep valuables out of their sight. Do not even try to throw intact boxes of new gadgets you have just bought. If you have bought a television set or a computer for instance, make sure to crash their boxes and put them inside trash bags before throwing them out.
Get Canine Security Protection
Trespassers are often frustrated at the sight of dogs around a property. Dogs can threaten potential intruders and can keep them away. Especially when they are trained, your canine friends can provide excellent protection not only to your property but to all the people inside the house as well.
If you do not have dogs and are not looking to get one, you can hire the services of a security canine handler. Canine handlers can provide a visible presence within your vicinity when you are not around. Along with their dogs, these professionals can offer more protection than a normal security guard does. Their dog companions are highly trained to detect trespassers and burglars. They can identify any suspicious activities even before they are picked up by surveillance cameras.
Remove Possible Hiding Places
Some plants around your property may provide good hiding places for burglars. If you have trees or shrubs, have them trimmed. Clearing your area from possible hiding places can deter criminals from entering your property. If you have sheds, keep them locked all the time. Secure your garages as well, making sure that it is not easy for any unauthorized persons to open.
Install a Safe
Even when you have done every security measure for the exteriors of your home, it is still highly recommended to perform security precautions within the interior of your home. If you have some valuables, such as jewelry, keep them in a safe. Safes with redundant locks are excellent options.
Employ Home Automation
Home automation is an excellent security mechanism especially if you are out of the house most of the time. Home automation allows you to set your alarms, control your security cameras, door locks, lights, and other safety devices even if you are far from home. You may even install a smart doorbell as an additional security feature. These elements can scare intruders away.
You do not have to use all the above-mentioned strategies to secure your home from burglars and break-ins. You can choose which ones will work for you and your home. A combination of all of them, though, can provide you better security.