According to statistics, home burglary crimes occur at least once every 15 seconds within the United States. That averages out to be 240 crimes every hour. In a day, that is a total of 5,760 home burglaries.
Most of these occur between the times of 10 am and 3 pm due to the fact that this is when most people are out – be it attending school, working, or tending to errands.
Most reports of burglaries that have been solved by law enforcement indicate that the culprit behind the crime typically resides within two miles of the home that has been targeted.
All of these are startling statistics and indicate that it is more important than ever before to learn how to keep your home safe. In this guide, you will be presented with a number of tips that will help you.
Tip #1: Get to Know Those That Live in Your Neighborhood
The first step to keeping your home safe is to take the time to get to know your neighbors. According to crime statistics, unfavorable occurrences – such as home burglaries – are much lower in communities where people know one another and look out for each other.
By knowing your neighbors on a personal level, you will discover that they are the extra eyes and ears for your home. If you are not at your home and suspicious activity occurs, there is a chance that one of your neighbors who is at home may be able to alert officials to the activity and/or inform you of what has happened.
Plus, when everyone knows each other, it becomes exceptionally easy to identify unusual vehicles and people in the area.
Tip #2: Create a Neighborhood Watch Group
While we are on the topic of neighbors, let’s expound on a very important program that will thwart would-be thieves from the area where you reside – the neighborhood watch organization.
Not only does this help you in becoming familiar with your neighbors, but it is a wonderful opportunity to work together for the cause of keeping the area safe.
By collaborating with your local law enforcement agency, your neighborhood watch group can learn how to identify suspicious people and what to do, how to identify a burglary that is in process, and even learn what to do in various types of emergencies.
By posting various types of media – be it signs, bumper stickers, decals for windows, etc. – would-be thieves will quickly identify your neighborhood as one that is heavily watched and protected, which reduces the opportunity for crimes to take place there.
Tip #3: Integrate and Utilize Fences and Garages
Two of the most important structures that you can have on your property – in terms of home safety – are fences and garages. You should always make certain that these are kept closed and locked.
If you use a fence, make sure all gates are kept locked at all times – not just when you are away. If you use a garage, make certain your vehicle is pulled in to it, the garage door is secured and locked.
This will help protect your automobile and any items inside. If your garage attaches directly to your home, make certain that entrance is kept locked, too.
Tip #4: Install Motion-Sensing Lights Around the Entire Perimeter
To protect your home from thieves, it is critical that you install motion-sensing lights around the entire perimeter. Thieves prefer to work in the dark.
If they activate a light, they are likely to leave the scene due to the fear of being seen. If you have the capability, motion-sensing lights should also be placed at the entranceways into your property.
Tip #5: Install a Home Alarm and Surveillance System
If you want to properly protect your home from thieves, you should be certain to install a security system that includes surveillance. Not only will this help to deter thieves, but if one should attempt to illegally gain access to your home, authorities will be notified immediately.
If cameras are in place, the system will obtain an image of the person who attempted to break in, making it easier for law enforcement to locate and apprehend the suspect.
Tip #6: Do Not Broadcast Personal Information on Social Media Platforms
While it is commonplace for people to share upcoming events in their lives – such as traveling to a popular destination or going on vacation – you should avoid doing this. It is common for thieves to watch accounts to obtain such information.
If they know you will be gone, they know that they will have ample time to either break into your home or take something from your property. If you want to share your experiences, wait until after you have returned home.
Tip #7: Obtain Home Insurance
While home insurance will not actually deter a thief, it can help recoup losses if your home or property is burglarized. You can obtain Homes, condos, and CO-OP insurance that provides many features and options.
Examples include identity theft protection, loss by theft, coverage for lost cash, watercrafts, furs, silverware, electronics, and other items.
At least if a loss does occur, you will have the capability of obtaining money to replace certain items in or around your home.
If you would like to learn more about insurance to protect your home and the items therein, contact us today by calling: 718-855-1836.