Some of the best ways to keep burglars out of your home are also some of the most simple and the least expensive. Are you taking these steps to prevent a break-in?
Lock it up.
It sounds like a no-brainer, but can you say that every window in your house is locked at this very moment? It’s estimated that in one third of all home burglaries, thieves enter a home through an unlocked window or door. Make it a habit for yourself and your household that when you close a window, lock it. The same goes for doors. And don’t automatically keep your garage open all day when you’re home. Open garage doors are an invitation to thieves.
Light up the night. Consider installing outdoor lighting around your home. Choose motion-sensitive lighting and you’ll know if there’s movement outside your home at night.
Get adequate locks. Locks can be the weakest part of your doors that lead to the outside. Consider installing only grade 1 or grade 2 deadbolt locks. Slide locks can provide an added layer of security.
Talk with your neighbors. In some ways, good neighbors are more effective than a security system. Build a good relationship with your neighbors. Tell them when you’re going on vacation, and instead of hiding a key outside, leave your spare with them.
Hold your mail. If you know you are going to be out of the house for more than a few days, call your post office and ask them to hold your mail. Nothing is more of a dead giveaway when you’re gone than your mailbox hanging open with letters, or packages stacked against your door for days. Have your neighbors collect any packages or newspapers that arrive in your absence.
Keep it trimmed. If you have trees or bushes around your windows, keep them trimmed. Burglars will have an easier time breaking in if something hides them. Going to be out of town for a while? Have someone mow your lawn and/or keep up on outside maintenance.
