Most burglars are opportunists who look for the path of least resistance; an easy target. Here are some simple tips to help deter burglars from targeting your home.
Get a dog
Burglars avoid homes with dogs for a multitude of reasons. It’s not just the risk of being bitten or through a fear of dogs, but because their bark draws attention to the burglary. You don’t necessarily have to choose a huge dog either; small dogs can have sharp teeth and a deceptively loud or piecing bark; these all act as a deterrent for burglars. You can also use stickers on doors and windows that advertise the presence of a dog or even use a recording if you aren’t a dog person.
Outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting can light up an area via motion sensors even if you aren’t in the property; burglars are always looking for dark, deserted properties so these security measures are a good, cheap deterrent.
Position them in dark corners and high enough up to prevent them from being tampered with or disabled, and so their light is reaching as far as possible.
Look after your garden
This might sound like a strange one, but keeping a well-maintained garden or yard is a must for two reasons. Firstly, an overgrown garden can provide a burglar with cover and hiding places making it easier to approach and leave the property safely. Secondly an unkempt garden is often the sign of an empty property or a poorly maintained one; burglars will see the property as an easy target.
Install Proper Locks
Installing good locks on your doors is not only a matter of protecting your property against an attempt of burglary. Despite enforcing the door fitting a solid deadlock will also have an impact of how secured your door is. This will help in deterring any potential criminal.
Don’t let the whole world know you’re on holiday
Lots of burglaries happen when you’re away on holiday; it’s the one time that burglars know there won’t be anyone in. It’s therefore important that you don’t post about your holiday on social media until after you have returned; resist the temptation to “check in” on Facebook at the airport, or talk about how long it is until you go away on holiday. Post your pictures when you return and make it clear that you are back.
You may also want to ask a neighbour to check in on your home; perhaps they would be willing to open slightly your curtains during the day and close them when night comes. This will help deter potential burglars.
Keep valuables out of sight
It might sound obvious, but you shouldn’t advertise your valuables to burglars. Keep jewellery, computers and mobile phones out of sight. If you have larger expensive items such as a TV, consider drawing the curtains more frequently.