17 Smart Strategies to Safeguard Your Home from Intruders
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Did you know that in the United States, a burglary occurs approximately every 26 seconds? That’s according to a recent report by the FBI. That’s an alarming statistic, particularly for homeowners and new parents that put safety first.
Given the current rate of home invasions, your home safety is a necessity, not a choice. In 2019 alone, there were an estimated 1.1 million burglaries in the U.S., according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program, with loss in property in the billions of dollars. Here are 17 smart ways to keep your home safe from intruders.
Install High-Quality Deadbolt Locks
Installing high-quality deadbolt locks is probably one of the simple yet most effective ways to protect your home. The Electronic Security Association (ESA) says homes with poor locks are 300 percent more likely to be broken into. Deadbolts offer a significant layer of protection against forceful entry methods commonly used by burglars.
When buying a deadbolt pick one that contains a hardened steel bolt. Such bolts get deep into the door frame which is really hard for intruders to break through. Strengthen the door jamb with a metal plate too. It’s a small investment that easily pays dividends.
Secure Windows with Reinforced Glass or Security Film
Windows are a common entry point for burglars, so reinforcing them is essential. According to SafeHome.org, 23% of burglaries occur through first-floor windows. Strengthening your windows with reinforced glass or security film can significantly deter break-ins.
Reinforced glass is designed to withstand impact, making it difficult for intruders to shatter. Alternatively, security film is a transparent layer applied to existing windows, adding an extra barrier against forced entry attempts.
Trim Shrubs and Trees Near Entrances
Your home’s security strategy can also be reinforced by landscaping. Intruders are concealed by overgrown shrubs and trees at entrances making it an easy way to approach your home without being noticed. According to the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, maintaining clear sightlines is crucial for deterring crime.
Shrubs and trees should be regularly trimmed to keep windows from being obscured and entry points from being blocked. Make sure you keep them well maintained so as not to give a hiding spot to any intruders. Add an extra layer of defense, and look for thorny shrubs to plant under windows.
Install Security Cameras with Remote Access
Security cameras serve as an effective deterrent and provide valuable evidence in the event of a break-in. According to a study by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 60% of burglars would avoid homes with visible security cameras. Through remote access, you can keep an eye on your property from afar, ensuring peace of mind.
For best coverage choose cameras with high resolution capabilities and night vision. Place them strategically at entryways, driveways and yard locations. And many of today’s cameras support cloud storage so your footage will be safe and available.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight from Windows
Visible valuables can tempt intruders, so it’s important to keep them out of sight. The Bureau of Justice Statistics says burglars like homes where they can quickly see what high-value items they can take. Reducing your visibility decreases your chance to become a target.
More can be done by rearranging furniture and belongings so there is no line of sight visibility from windows. Store expensive items in concealed areas or use blinds and curtains to obscure interior views.
Add a Peephole or Doorbell Camera
For home security, it is important to know who’s at your door before you open it. Peephole or doorbell camera offers you a clear view of visitors, helping you determine whether you can risk opening the door. The National Crime Prevention Council says one of the best ways to prevent a break-in is to be careful about opening your door.
Install a peephole on your front door for a cost-effective solution. With a doorbell camera, video and audio are available to you, so you can even talk to visitors remotely. Install them strategically so that the camera would cover as wide angle as possible.
Use Sliding Door Locks or Security Bars
Sliding doors, often found in patios and backyards, are vulnerable entry points for intruders. According to Consumer Reports, reinforcing sliding doors is essential for home security. Installing sliding door locks or security bars adds an extra layer of protection.
Sliding door locks secure the door in place, making it difficult for intruders to lift or force open. Security bars provide a physical barrier, preventing the door from being opened even if the lock is compromised.
Create the Illusion of Occupancy with Timed Lights
Creating the illusion of occupancy can deter intruders when you’re away If you’re away from home, creating the illusion of occupancy may deter intruders. The Ohio State University says burglars are less likely to strike homes that seem to have people around. One simple way to achieve such an illusion is by using timed lights.
Indoor and outdoor lights can be controlled by using programmable timers. Make them mimic your usual routines, like turning them on at night and turning them off in the morning. One additional flexibility is that some smart lights can be controlled remotely.
Secure Your Garage Door with Additional Locks
Garage doors are often overlooked in home security, yet they can be a vulnerable entry point for intruders. According to the Art of Manliness, securing your garage door is essential for preventing break-ins. Additional locks offer enhanced protection.
Consider installing a manual lock or a smart garage door opener with security features. Manual locks prevent the door from being forced open, while smart openers offer remote access and monitoring capabilities.
Store Tools and Ladders Inside
Leaving tools and ladders outside can provide intruders with the means to access your home National Crime Prevention Council says that home security involves securing the potential tools of burglars. To mitigate the threat, keep them inside.
Designate a secure storage area for tools and ladders within your garage or shed. Use locks or cable ties to further secure them and limit accessibility.
Use a Safe for Valuables
A safe provides an additional layer of protection for your most valuable possessions. According to the Insurance Information Institute, storing high-value items in a safe is a recommended security measure. Choose a safe that suits your needs and requirements.
Select a safe with a strong locking mechanism and fire-resistant properties. Consider bolting it to the floor or wall for added security. Use it to store important documents, jewelry, and cash.
Get to Know Your Neighbors and Watch for Suspicious Activity
Building a sense of community with your neighbors is a valuable security measure. According to the Bureau of Justice Assistance, neighborhoods with strong community ties experience lower crime rates. Keep an eye out for each other and report any suspicious activity.
Introduce yourself to your neighbors and establish open lines of communication. Share contact information and consider joining or creating a neighborhood watch program. Encourage everyone to report unusual behavior to local authorities.
Install Fencing or Thorny Shrubs Along Property Boundaries
Physical barriers, such as fencing or thorny shrubs, serve as effective deterrents for intruders. According to the International Security Management Association, property barriers reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access. Consider these options for your home.
Install a sturdy fence around your property to establish clear boundaries. Alternatively, plant thorny shrubs, such as roses or bougainvilleas, along property lines for a natural deterrent. These barriers make it more challenging for intruders to approach your home.
Put Up Security Signage Even If You Don’t Have a System
Even if you don’t have a comprehensive security system, signage alone can deter potential intruders. According to a survey by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 83% of burglars check for alarms before attempting a break-in. Security signs act as a psychological deterrent.
Place visible security signs near entry points, such as doors and windows. Choose generic signage that implies the presence of a security system. The perception of security is often enough to discourage burglars.
Use Smart Locks with Keyless Entry
Welcome to the future of home security—smart locks with keyless entry A study by Security.org found that homes with smart locks are 50 percent less likely to be targeted by burglars. The convenience and the security they provide is that they allow access through smartphone apps or biometric scanning.
Smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of lost or stolen keys. You can also grant temporary access to guests or service providers without worrying about spare keys floating around. Plus, many smart locks track who enters and exits your home, providing an additional layer of security.
Set Up a Monitored Security System
A monitored security system acts as your home’s vigilant guardian, watching over it even when you’re away. According to a study by UNC Charlotte, homes with security systems are 60 percent less likely to be targeted for burglary. If your building gets broken into, these systems help you and local authorities respond as quickly as possible.
Modern security systems integrate various components, including motion detectors, cameras, and door/window sensors. Choose a system that suits your needs and budget, and consider investing in professional monitoring services for round-the-clock protection.
Add Motion-Sensor Outdoor Lighting
Lighting plays an important role in deterring intruders, and motion-sensor outdoor lights are an excellent investment. A study by the University of Chicago Crime Lab found that well-lit properties are 20 percent less likely to be targeted by burglars. These lights come on automatically when they detect motion, giving intruders no warning.
Place motion sensor lights at key points of your property, including entryways, driveways, and backyard areas. Go for LED lights for energy efficiency and durability, and ensure they cover blind spots where intruders might attempt to hide.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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