Tips and Tricks for a Safer Home

When it comes to home security, there are a number of ways that you can reduce your chances of a home burglary. According to a recent study, the amount of home burglaries varies significantly by state and by region, but overall thousands of Americans fall victim to this crime each year. Here are a few tips and tricks to help secure your home and give you better peace of mind.

Put up signs and stickers

Security systems, whether they are smart security systems or more traditional, act as deterrents to potential burglars. Studies have shown that having a security system can drastically reduce your chance of having someone successfully break in, often by 60 percent or more. Additionally, according to the study, 85 percent of law enforcement officers agree that the systems can reduce the chances of someone attempting to break in. So, it is important to make it clear that you have one. Setting up a yard sign and putting stickers on your windows is an easy way to flag your house as secure. Another way is to put up cameras need a door or window — some suggest putting them up even if they aren’t active. Just seeing the cameras acts as a deterrent.

Looking occupied even while vacant

This is another tip to reduce your chance of a break in is to make it look like your house has an occupant, even if you’re away. The simplest way is to leave on a light at night or put one on a timer. Thieves typically aren’t looking to burgle houses that have someone in them, so if you’re away on a trip, leave a plan for lights to be on. Also, you could consider setting a radio or a television on a timer if you think a light might not be enough. Sure, it might add a little to your electric bill, but it might be worth it.

Keep your landscaping in check

Yes, mowing the lawn and doing landscaping isn’t everyone’s favorite activity. But going along with the idea of looking like you have an occupied home, landscaping is part of that. A jungle for a yard and shrubbery that looks like a mess will make your house seem like it doesn’t have occupants. Also, having thick shrubs or overgrowth near windows or on the property only adds hiding places for burglars.

There is always a threat of a home burglary no matter how much you prepare. However, there are ways to reduce the risk of someone attempting to break into your home. Be smart and take steps to protect your home. These tips are just a few of the ways you can do it.

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