How Secure Is Your Future Home?
Are you familiar with the neighborhood you will be moving into? Once you get moved in, don’t let your new home be an easy target for burglars.
Things to Consider Before Moving In
Research shows that if it takes more than four to five minutes to break in, a potential intruder will move on to an easier target.
Take the time to case your home prior to moving in by checking for the darkest and easiest entry. You should also drive through your future neighborhood at night after hours.
When burglars break into homes, there’s a greater chance of them doing so during the day when many people are at work. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, around 40 percent of household burglaries in the United States are not forced entries. This means someone was able to walk, climb or crawl inside of houses easily.
How to Burglar-Proof Your New Home
- Consider installing exterior lights and motion detectors out of easy reach. Lights may deter intruders because they can be seen by neighbors. Burglars aren’t a fan of being in the spotlight.
- Make sure all doors and windows are secure. A good security system is your best bet to ward off potential robbers. Most insurance companies will offer a discount if you install devices such as an alarm system, to make your home more secure, making the investment even more appealing. Keep your home and family safe and compare home security system plans.
- Keep your garage door closed and locked. Don’t provide burglars with an easy access point such as a garage or a side door.
- Don’t be a Showboat. Leaving expensive items in your front yard or in plain sight can lure thieves to your home like bargain hunters at a flea market. Keep bikes, scooters, and expensive things inside your garage and out of sight. Consider breaking down boxes for things such as your new flatscreen TV and placing them in your recycle bin rather than leaving them on the sidewalk. If you have expensive items placed near windows, consider keeping shades drawn or relocating the items somewhere they will be out-of-sight.
- Trick them into thinking you’re home. If burglars think someone is home, there’s a greater chance that they won’t attempt to break in. Remember, most break-ins occur during the day when people are at work. When you leave the house, create the illusion that someone’s still there. Leave a light on, play some music or leave your television on for good measure.
I hope these tips can help you and your new home remain burglar free! For more tips and tricks, check out some of our other blogs.
Have you experienced a break-in? Share your story, tips, and tricks in the comments below!