Today’s informative guest post is by writer and super-connector Wendy Dessler – thanks Wendy!
How much do you know about home break-ins? If you believe the cartoons, you may think that burglaries only happen at night, with a criminal sneaking around in a black mask with a swag bag! While this might be what home break-ins look like on the big screen, this is far from the truth. In reality, the majority of break ins happen in broad daylight. They even are committed by burglars who live nearby. Plus, despite our misconception that these crimes are well thought-out and highly planned, most homes are burgled in less than 10 minutes. That means it’s more essential than ever that you take your home security seriously with these 5 low-cost (and free!) security tips below:
1. START WITH THE FRONT DOOR
Did you know that a startling 34% of burglars enter through the front door? That’s right, your primary entryway is the easiest way for burglars to get in. The first thing you can do is make sure your door is always locked at home. Simple enough, eh? If you’re fitting a new door in the future, choose a strong door made of solid wood or steel. A new front door will boost the kerb-appeal of your home and add value to the property so it’s a good investment anyway. Beyond that, install new locks and always use a deadbolt – these may also help to bring the cost of your home insurance down so can work out a very cost-effective security option.
2. INSTALL A SECURITY ALARM
Even if you think your neighbourhood is safe, it’s worth investing in a security system. Don’t rely on gates, fences and doors to keep your home safe – make it clear that you’ve protected your home by adding an alarm to the exterior of your property. According to a a university report, 60% burglars claimed that the presence of a security system influenced their decision to target a home or not. Take advantage of special offers on alarms online to get set up with a low-cost security system that’ll deter opportunistic thieves.
3. CHANGE UP YOUR ROUTINE
Do you stick to the same routine every day? If so, your home might be at risk. Most break ins, as we said before, are committed by criminals who live nearby. That means they might already have a close eye on your regular routine and activities. They’ll be looking for signs that you’re not home. If possible, vary your routine and always have someone keep an eye on your home when you’re away. This costs nothing and could make all the difference to the security of your home.
4. HIDE YOUR VALUABLES CAREFULLY
Another completely free security measure is to stash your valuables away. Burglars know that most people don’t take the time to carefully hide their tech or jewellery so they’re likely to head straight to your desk or bedroom, looking in common spots like your dressing table, bedside table, and even under your mattress. The best way to protect your valuables is to store them in a safe that’s bolted to the floor if you have the budget for this, or to simply hide them in unlikely locations like in a spare room, kitchen cupboard or somewhere else that’s not predictable.
5. DON’T FORGET YOUR GARAGE
Last but not least, don’t forget the most vulnerable are of your home. No, it’s not your back door or even your windows. It’s the garage. This is one of the most popular entry points for burglars. Even if they can’t get into your home, odds are you’ve got some valuables stored in your garage that are worth taking so keep the garage door locked! If the garage is joined to your house, the best thing to do is to always ensure the door between your home and your garage is locked from the inside of the house – and you could maybe even add a bolt too. Finally, always cover windows to hide any valuables that might be spotted in your garage.
So, is your home safe? I hope these tips above will help you to sleep soundly at night knowing your home is safe. You don’t want to become the victim of a home break in, so do everything you can to stay safe.
Today’s guest post was written by Wendy Dessler, a super-connector who helps businesses through partnerships and networking. She frequently writes about the latest advancements and I’d like to thank Wendy for sharing her knowledge on the subject of home security.
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