8 Easy and Cheap Tips to Prevent Break-Ins
November 26, 2015
Ensuring the safety of your family and home may feel rather daunting. You might consider installing the latest state-of-the-art home security system to help prevent break-ins. However, there are a few easier things you can do to prevent break-ins. Below, we've listed eight easy and cheap deterrents against burglaries.
1. Use a Home Security Sticker
Instead of spending a lot of money on a brand new home security system, put a sticker on your door or in your window that gives the impression that you have one. Some intruders may have experience with a particular system type, so choose a sticker that doesn't specify a company. These stickers will make a potential burglar think twice before entering your home.
2. Post a 'Beware of Dog' Sign
Even if you don't have a dog, get a 'beware of dog' sign. It's the same concept as the home security sticker: the burglar will be under the impression there's a dog hiding somewhere in your house. No thief wants to disturb a potential alarm system, especially if that system may feature a loud bark and a sharp bite.
3. Install Motion Sensor Lights
Motion sensor lights are both convenient when you get home late at night and helpful as a burglary deterrent. When a light turns on unexpectedly, a thief may assume you're home and awake, and they won't want to take their chances breaking into your home.
4. Store Valuables Wisely
Many burglars first search the master bedroom for valuables, since homeowners tend to store these items in this area. Whatever your valuables may be, avoid storing them under the bed or in your closet. Find a more secure hiding place or even have a locksmith install a safe.
For larger valuables, like a computer or television, make sure they can't be seen from your windows. Many thieves look through windows to pick out their targets, so don't forget to keep your blinds shut at night and while you're out as well.
5. Secure Sliding Doors
A number of sliding doors, especially older ones, present easy targets. Some are even flimsy enough that an intruder can just pop the doors off of their tracks. If you don't have the means to replace an old sliding door, make it more secure instead. Install a pre-made latch, cut a dowel or rod so it fits into the track and prevents the door from moving or ask a locksmith to fit the door with a better locking device.
6. Maintain Your Yard
Make sure to maintain your property's foliage regularly. If trees or bushes cover your view of the outside, a burglar could easily hide behind them. When a burglar notices a property with wide open spaces and no hiding spots, they're more likely to leave your home alone because a neighbour could spot them as they break in.
7. Park in the Garage
If you have a garage, use it. Park your car inside and close the door behind you. If thieves can't see your car regularly, they'll have a harder time knowing when you're home or when you leave the house. When you're not home, make sure to close the garage as well. You'd be surprised to know how many people forget this simple step and a burglar uses the garage to get inside a home.
8. Use Your Locks
A surprising number of burglars enter houses through unlocked doors or windows. Even if it seems obvious, always double check your locks, especially before you leave on holiday. If one lock doesn't seem to work properly, call your local locksmith to fix it or install new locks. If you live in an apartment or home with other people, make sure they know to double check the locks as well.
For more tips and answers to any questions, contact your local locksmith. They'll be happy to help you determine the best ways to keep your home and family safe.
