The best defense is a good offense. Regardless of whether or not anything is stolen, there are still impacts from the crime. One of the most devastating impacts of these crimes is the feeling of violation the victims are left with. You may no longer feel safe in your home. Family heirlooms that are priceless to you but worthless to others may be carelessly smashed in the invasion. You don’t want to have to defend your home from a perpetrator who is inside it. Therefore, make your home a less than desirable target so they will choose to pass you by. Here’s how.
- Endulge your love for Dogs – If you truly love dogs, go ahead and find your fur-ever friend. (Having a source of home protection is not a good reason to get a dog in itself. They require companionship, upkeep and time. ) Burglars are put off by the noise of dogs barking. Even a small dog can bark enough to wake the house and is therefore a deterrent to the would be thieves. Larger dogs add to that the risk of being attacked. If you do get a dog for home protection, be sure to get a sign for the yard that says “Beware of dog”. After all, you want to scare them off from as far a distance as possible.
- More Signs that work – Speaking of signs, there are several other signs that deter burglars. Home security signs can be purchased and put in the yard. The criminals have no way of knowing if you actually have a home security system. Google “home security yard signs” and you will find a plethora of options.
- Locks – Be sure you have quality deadbolt locks which are installed properly. Consider changing out the screws in your door strike plates for longer ones. Most contractors install the plates with the supplied screws which are only a half inch long and come out with one kick by a burglar. Install 4-inch screws ($2) in their place that go through the door frame and into the framing of the house. They can kick for a long time before they get tired!
- Purchase a Security Camera – A quick search online for security cameras will reveal a wealth of available options. Some come with wifi, night vision, wireless connections …. SO many options. Again, the thieves have no idea who is watching and from where so… on to a different home.
- Light it up – Indoors and out, keep lights on so that your property is easy to see from the street and does not provide dark areas where a thief can lurk. If you don’t have streetlights near your home you may consider adding a light pole in your front yard. Check out your local home store for options. Indoors, be sure to put lights on a timer if you will be away from home. This will help to fool anyone who is watching to see if you are there.
- Be Tidy – Don’t let mail and newspapers pile up if you are away. Put the mail on hold. If you forget to do this before you leave home you can do it online here! Likewise, call the local paper to have them put the delivery on hold. Consider registering for the UPS and FedEx tracking notices. That way, if you have a package coming, you can redirect it or have a friend pick it up.
- Keep your business to yourself – Do NOT publicize your vacations and trips away from home. Unfortunately, sometimes the thieves are actually so-called friends, or friends of friends and family. Do not post on social media about your trip until you return. Finally, enjoy your time away from home knowing you have protected your investment…
