Home theft is a severe problem in the United States. It’s also an expensive one. Losses came to an average of $2,416 per burglary in 2017, and it can cost you much more, depending on what the criminals take. Fortunately, you can protect your home to reduce the risk of being a burglary victim. Here are some tips to secure your home and protect it from burglary.
1. Send the Right Message
You can make your house less likely to be robbed by sending the right message to would-be burglars. Having a dog helps, but even if you don’t have one, you can put up a “beware of dog” sign to deter home theft.
You can also use lighting to your advantage. Install landscape lighting around your home and keep some on a timer inside. That way, your house will always look occupied.
Also, make sure your home has a “lived-in look” that scares away burglars. That means you need to maintain the property, so it looks like someone lives there. If you go on vacation, have someone take over the duties for you. Having someone get your mail and mow your lawn when you’re out of town is a great way to prevent house theft.
2. Make Your Front Door More Secure
You can make your front door more secure by switching to one with a solid core, such as solid wood or metal. Put a sturdy deadbolt lock on the door and secure it with a strike plate with four heavy-duty screws.
3. Secure Your Windows
Window security is also essential. If you’re serious about window security, get them with shatterproof glass or a security film to prevent it from shattering. You also need to install window security locks. These supplemental locks will make it much harder to break into your home.
4. Don’t Announce Your Plans
Social media has made it easy to tell the world when you have plans. As enticing as it is, don’t tell people about your vacation on social media. Thieves look for social media posts that indicate people are going out of town. If you want to prevent home theft, never post about travel plans.
5. Get a Home Security System
You can prevent house theft by getting a home security system. Home security systems have lots of features, including security cameras and outdoor alarms. Choose a security system that allows you to access your cameras from your phone. That way, you can check up on your home, no matter where you are.
6. Form a Neighborhood Watch
You can make your home safe from intruders by forming a neighborhood watch. Neighborhoods with these programs can expect an average of 16 percent less crime compared to those without one. However, some programs weren’t nearly as successful. If you want yours to succeed, team up with local law enforcement. The officers can guide you and teach you how to protect your neighborhood.
Keep Your Home Safe and Prevent Home Theft
These tips will help you keep your home safe from burglars. You should also purchase theft insurance just in case you have a burglary. You can buy a policy that covers your loss related to robbery, including your personal property. Talk to a licensed insurance agent to find out more about theft insurance.
Another great way to protect your home from theft is by getting a homeowner’s insurance policy. Did you know that Freeway can help you find the right coverage for your needs and budget? Start your free home insurance quote online or over the phone today!
