Home Improvement DIY

It’s a startling thought but the FBI estimates that a burglary is committed once every 12 seconds.  Of course, we all want to avoid being one of those victims which means it’s important to learn about all the best ways to secure your home from these criminals.  In order to do this, it helps if you can try and think more like a burglar, rather than a homeowner or even a locksmith in California.

It goes without saying that burglars will do everything within their ability to avoid being caught.  One way of doing this is by seeking out vulnerable targets which helps minimize this.

Burglars Look For an Easy Target

The more amateurish burglars will simply smash a window and grab whatever they can get their hands on.  Or they will sneak into your home whilst the door is unlocked.  However the professional puts more thought into their crime so that they can get away with more valuables whilst lowering the risk.

Burglars Like to Hide

The first thing to notice is that they have to approach the house by stealth.  It’s for this obvious reason that most burglaries occur during the night.  Installing adequate lighting is one of the most basic steps in preventing a break-in.  Have a look around your home and identify what areas are hidden in darkness.

Make sure you secure areas where a thief could be unseen.  Normally this will be on the side of the house, however in really it depends on how your house is built and where other homes and trees are situated.  You can buy security devices which are installed onto windows to prevent them opening completely.  You’ll find these in your local DIY store.

All that’s required is to drill a small hole through your window frame and into the wall.  Insert a small dowel into the hole, or better still obtain a small kit that contains a spring loaded mechanism, similar to some screen door kits. The kits screw into the frame.

Depending on the perceived rewards for the burglar, they may even smash your window glass in order to enter your property.  One way to overcome this is by installing wrought iron bars which go over your window.  Then of course, you also have the option of having an alarm system installed which can sense glass being shaken or broken.

A Warning About Plants in Your Garden

Some thieves will hide amongst bushes so you may want to trim these back or plant shrubs with thorns on them instead.  Having an easily visible perimeter around the house makes it less likely a thief will want to enter.  For some reason, simply having your driveway gates closed is enough of a physiological barrier for many thieves.

Protection Whilst You Are Away From Home

Most burglars prefer to commit their crimes whilst nobody is about which is why homes are often targeted whilst the occupant is away.  If you have to be away for any extended time, ask a friend or neighbour to check on the house for you.  Also ask them to take any mail or newspapers inside as this is often a signal that a property is empty.

Most burglars just want an easy “get in and get out” job.  So if you’re house is well protected, chances are they will simply move on and find an easier victim.  This might sound a little sad but it’s a reality.

If you are still unsure about the security of your home, contact your local police station as they may be able to send a crime prevention officer round to help you further.

 

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