As a homeowner in California, it's very important to secure your home-- especially if you and your family enjoy going on vacations whenever you can. Once the family is away, this becomes the perfect opportunity for burglars and intruders to get into your home. Likewise, the majority of burglary incidents are caused by thieves taking advantage of opportunities, such as vulnerable windows, unlocked doors, and spare keys left in the most obvious places. So, how can you prevent being a victim of this? The answer is simple. Familiarize yourself with some of the most effective security measures that you can take.
1. Make Sure the Doors Are Fully Secured
For those who are not aware, over 50% of burglars enter through the front door. That's why it's very important that you inspect your front door, but aside from that, also check the other doors in your home. The door frames should be strong and the hinges well-protected. If it's a wooden door, make sure that it's not hollow, and if it has a small slot for receiving mail, it shouldn't allow the thief to easily unlock the door from the outside. Furthermore, despite the fact that the front door should be aesthetically pleasing, you shouldn't sacrifice your security either. That means if there aren’t any peepholes or deadbolts, now is the perfect time to have those installed and secure your home even more.
Related Story: Make your door break-in proof to burglars
2. Lock the Windows
Don't solely rely on the latches manufacturers place on windows, because they're not usually effective. If possible, have it replaced with key-operated levers or lock. This would bring your home security into a new level. You should also consider the use of tempered or laminated glass because this provides stronger hold.
3. Warning Signs Are Important
Burglars find ways to perfect their craft, and usually, they'd prefer an easy target over a complicated one.
That means they don't want to risk themselves being mauled by a guard dog. So, how can you secure your home? Even if you don't have a dog, you should put a “beware of dog” warning sign. Likewise, you can make it more convincing by putting a dog bowl on the side door. For homeowners that are paying a security company for an alarm, announce this with a sign and decals to keep the burglars off your property. Make sure you can easily see the sign from the street and have decals on windows and patiio doors on the back and sides of the home. If someone jumps your back fence you want them to know you have a security system. A few visible outdoor cameras also provide an additional deterrent for burglars who do not want to be caught on video.
4. Don't Forget the Lighting
A well maintained home that's well-lit gives burglars a second thought of having it as a target. That's why putting motion-sensing lights by the doorways and entrances, as well as, turning some lights on and off remotely through a mobile device, could give you a sense of security. Aside from that, from the entrance of your home, you should also consider placing light timers near the windows, but make sure that the curtains are closed to prevent the intruders from seeing it. The good thing about light timers is that they're very affordable and you can get them almost anywhere. WIth an ADT Pulse lighting control you can program your lighting on a schedule and even randomize it all from your personalized ADT Pulse web portal.5. Eliminate the Potential Hiding Places
Although shrubs and bushes can make your property look more appealing, you have to consider that these provide burglars a handy hiding place. Don't make it easier for them to commit a crime within your property. Trim down the trees and plants close to your home. If you'd still want to have some plants, then stay away from planting large bushes that completely cover the view of your windows and doors. Do not make it easy for a burglar to have a hiding place as he works on breaking into one of your door or window openings.6. Security Systems Can Save You
Installing a monitored security system that combines cameras, alarms, and motion sensors to monitor specific areas or the whole property could definitely secure your home. These alarms could be activated even when your home is occupied. Once the sensor picks up motion, you'll automatically receive ASSISTANCE.Final Words
When you have a break-in, it is definitely a nightmare. Not only is it distressing, it could also be traumatizing for the victim. Although there are insurance policies that would replace the things damaged or stolen, prevention is still better than replacement. The tips mentioned above would help you make your home extra secured against theft, burglary, and robbery.
If you'd like to learn more about owning your own monitored security system, give us a call at 1-800-310-9490 or fill out the form below and we'll contact you. Securing your home can assure that while you are out creating lasting memories with your loved ones, those memories won't be coupled with the devastation of coming home to a burglarized home.
Editor's note: guest blog submitted by Stephen fox of 2 Rivers Properties.
