How to Protect Your Home from Burglars
If you’re worried about burglars breaking into your home, you’re not alone. According to the FBI, there were over 1.1 million burglaries in the US in 2019, resulting in an estimated $3 billion in property losses. That’s why it’s important to take some steps to protect your home and deter potential intruders. Here are some tips on how to do that:
– Install a security system. A security system can alert you and the authorities if someone tries to enter your home without permission. You can choose from different types of systems, such as alarms, cameras, motion sensors, or smart locks. Some systems also allow you to monitor your home remotely from your smartphone or computer.
– Lock your doors and windows. This may seem obvious, but many burglaries happen because people forget to lock their doors and windows or leave them open for ventilation. Make sure you lock all your entry points, especially when you’re away or sleeping. You can also use deadbolts, bars, or anti-lift devices to reinforce your doors and windows.
– Light up your property. Burglars tend to avoid well-lit areas because they don’t want to be seen or caught. You can use outdoor lights, timers, or motion-activated lights to illuminate your front yard, backyard, porch, garage, or driveway. You can also use indoor lights to create the illusion that someone is home when you’re not.
– Keep your valuables out of sight. Burglars are looking for easy targets, so don’t tempt them by leaving your valuables in plain view. You can use curtains, blinds, or shades to cover your windows and prevent outsiders from seeing inside your home. You can also store your valuables in a safe, a hidden compartment, or a locked drawer or cabinet.
– Be careful with social media. Posting about your vacation plans, your location, or your new purchases on social media can attract unwanted attention from burglars who may use this information to target your home. You can limit who can see your posts by adjusting your privacy settings or wait until you’re back home to share your photos and stories.