Home burglaries can happen at any time but especially during the holiday season. Here are five tips to keep in mind to help protect yourself, your family and home:
1. Upgrade Your Locks
When choosing locks for your exterior doors, the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) says there are three things you should consider: strength, durability and key control. You’ll want a lock that can withstand tampering (such as drilling or pounding) and should look for models labeled with a durability rating of Grade 2 or better. Consider using keys that will help prevent others from making copies if they get lost. NCPC recommends using high-security keys that are protected against unauthorized duplication.
2. Don’t Advertise High-End Purchases
Even if you don’t share photos of your new TV or laptop on your social media accounts, you may be inadvertently sharing that same information with potential thieves when you take out the trash. BobVila.com points out that labeled boxes from electronics and other high-end goods left on the curb for garbage pickup may alert thieves to what you have inside your home. Instead, consider breaking down boxes so they fit completely inside your garbage or recycling can.
3. Move or Hide Valuables While Away from Home
From jewelry to smart speakers, many homes have items that can appeal to burglars and are easy to swipe. HomeAdvisor.com suggests transferring your valuables to a lock box or safe while you’re away. If you cannot move valuable items, such as a large TV, you may want to check that they are not clearly visible through a door or window. If they are, consider rearranging furniture to help block visibility. Writing down the make, model and serial number for each of your electronic devices can make it easy to identify valuables in the event of theft, adds SafeHome.org. Creating a home inventory may also help in the event that you need to file an insurance claim.
4. Keep Your Home Well Lit and Trim Overgrown Shrubs
SafeHome.org states that burglars often target homes that lack outdoor lighting or have overgrown landscaping that offers easy hiding spots. Ensure your home is well lit by turning on outdoor lights at night, and trim bushes and trees to eliminate any potential hiding spots. Consider installing motion-sensor lights near entry points or dark areas around the outside your home to help deter burglars, adds HomeAdvisor.com. You can also install and set timers for both indoor and outdoor lights to keep your home well-lit while you’re away.
5. Shake Up Your Schedule
A consistent routine could help burglars pinpoint the best time to target your home. If you spend most of your days on the same schedule, consider changing up your routine when possible. Maybe leave and return home at different times to make it harder for a burglar to nail down your schedule.
The Goines Agency is committed to providing you honest and accurate information. Contact us today to discuss your situation, 931-553-1969 or go here.