Here are 9 effective ways to protect your home from being burglarized.
Prune your shrubs-
Bushes, shrubs and trees can offer an intruder places to hide and camouflage signs of a break-in. Trim back any overgrown vegetation so that your home's windows, porches and doors are visible to neighbors and passersby.
Cover your windows-
Use shades, drapes and other window treatments to keep potentially tempting household items out of view. Burglary is sometimes a crime of opportunity and "window-shopping" is one way criminals choose potential targets. It would be a good idea to also make sure your windows are locked and secured while leaving the property for long periods of time.
Don't advertise new purchases-
Be sure not to draw any unwanted attention by leaving large tv, appliance, or electronic boxes on the curb. Make sure that these boxes are flattened or ripped up, so that you are not showing a potential burglar what is in your home.
Buy Motion Sensors-
One of the most effective theft deterrent systems is the lighted motion sensors. It provides a bright light if someone is walking around your home, but also alerts you and possible neighbors that someone is on your property. It makes it harder for a burglar to go unseen.
Buy indoor timers-
You can usally buy these types of timers for christmas lights. These are good to set up at least 30 minutes before dusk, and turns on lights and a radio or television as to resemble someone being at home. Burglars usually do not like to attempt theft on a home if someone is present. They basically want to get in and get out without being seen.
Reinforce your doors-
All entry doors should be solid wood or steel-wrapped core doors. Hollow doors and wood panel doors don't offer much protection if being kicked in.
Sheild windows near doors-
For existing doors with windows, it is a good idea to cover those windows with a sheet of plexiglass.
it can prevent the burglar from breaking the window and either opening the door's lock from the inside. Also with that added protection, burglars won't want to take the time to remove it, and have the chance of getting caught or being seen.
Install Deadbolt locks-
Deadbolts should be installed on every exterior door.
Consult city building codes before buying
new double cylinder deadbolt locks, though. Some communities don't
allow their use due to safety concerns: They can impede a speedy exit
from a home in case of fire. And when upgrading any entry door lockset,
make sure that the strike plate is properly secured with strong 3-inch
screws into the home's structural framing (studs).
Use Common Sense-
With the economy these days, you have to protect what is yours. Use your head. Make sure that all doors and windows are locked when you leave the house. Make sure all fences are secure and locked. Also it might be a good idea to get a dog, or just post "beware of dog" signs to alert potential thieves that they may get hurt.
