Simple Steps To Protect Your Home
In a recent national poll, homeowners overwhelmingly said that their number one concern around their home was the chance of burglary. Home invasion is a frightening thing, especially for families with children. While there is nothing that you can do to completely eliminate the possibility of a break in, you can most definitely do a few things to help improve your security options. If you follow just a few simple steps, you can improve your security and your peace of mind, as well.
The first thing that you should do is to install an alarm system. There are options available that will fit any budget, no matter how tight. This is the single most important factor in protecting your home. Studies show that simply installing an alarm system will reduce your chance of being burglarized by 50%. While you don’t have to, it is advisable to get the most comprehensive security system that you can afford. Wireless systems offer the greatest number of options, configurations and growth potential. These can easily be configured to work with security cameras inside and outside your home.
Security cameras are a great option. Even if you don’t have a security system, you can purchase dummy cameras that look just like the real thing. Often, these have an internal battery to power a light (LED) on the unit to simulate a real camera. These can be mounted in conspicuous places around the outside of your home to give burglars the impression that you shouldn’t be messed with. Mounting one near your front door, one near the back and at least one in another conspicuous location is recommended.
Another idea is to join or form a neighborhood watch. If you don’t live in a subdivision or neighborhood, you are already at a lowered risk. Most FBI studies show that burglars almost always originate within the neighborhood or from very nearby. However, within neighborhoods, an active neighborhood watch is a great way to deter many forms of crime, from burglary to vandalism. Burglars don’t want to get caught; vigilant neighbors can help keep them away and are just as effective as home security alarm signs and stickers. Make sure that neighborhood watch signs are posted through the neighborhood and especially at any entrances to the area.
When going on vacation, make sure that you have someone watch your home. This can be a friend, family member or a neighbor. Most burglars target homes that are unoccupied, so giving your home the appearance of occupation is important. Have the home watcher turn on a different light each night and collect all the mail and newspapers that pile up. Leaving a television on one night and only a light the next night is also a good idea. If you have a security alarm system, some companies allow you to notify them that you will be on vacation; they then know that a triggered alarm is not a false alarm. Make sure to let them know if you return early, though; that way they can adjust their monitoring.
