With rising crime, no one is safe. However, there are steps one can take to prevent being the target of home burglaries.
We keep our prized possessions and our loved ones in our home, but usually they are not very safe. Follow these simple guidelines to better guard against home invasions…
Everyone should invest in outdoor lighting. Lighting will make it harder for criminals to lurk in the garden. Burglars are much less likely to attack at a house where they think they will be seen. On the other hand, a dark yard with many places to hide is a ‘gangster’s paradise’. On the same note, it is also important to keep plants and shrubbery to a minimum, especially under windows and in corners of the property. Plants create shadows which make for perfect hiding places.
Greenery in general provides cover for burglars, so keep it trimmed and to a minimum. It is much easier to hide when there are trees and bushes than when there is just grass. Electric gates are the way to go! It’s dangerous to have to get out of your car to open the gate to your yard. This is especially true if you work late hours and often have to come and go in the dark. If you absolutely have to get out of your car, it is advisable to turn off your engine and close the door behind you. An electric garage door is also a wise move, as, again, you will not have to get in and out of your car just to park.
All doors should have a security gate attached to them. Security gates can give you peace of mind, as they are particularly useful in preventing ‘breaking and entering’ crimes. Whether you are home or away, your security gate should be closed and locked. Also, all windows should have burglar guards. Glass is easily broken, but burglar guards and security gates make it difficult for an intruder to get in. Surveillance cameras are really a great invention! If you are contracted with an alarm company, they can survey your property 24/7.
Even better is that if your home is broken into, you are more likely to catch the thieves and possibly recover stolen goods if there is actual footage of the criminals. Have an alarm installed – and arm it! If your alarm goes off, the alarm company will be immediately notified. Most alarm companies have armed personnel who will rush to your house to ensure your safety. Alarm companies generally put their signs up where they can be seen. This isn’t just a marketing scheme, but also a good deterrent against criminals. A burglar is much less likely to break into a house if it is obvious that it is alarm protected.
Most alarm companies will also issue you with a panic button, which is a priceless investment. When the panic button is pushed, the alarm sounds and guards and / or police should arrive at your house shortly. The noise of the alarm going off will also deter the burglars and let the neighbourhood know that something is wrong. It is a very good idea to get to know your neighbours because, if something does happen, they are the closest ones to you. Offer to keep an eye on their property when they are away and chances are they will do the same if you are away. Remember that burglars often survey a house before breaking into it. If they see the house is often empty, they are more likely to target it.
Keeping a pet is one of the oldest forms of home security. A dog’s hearing and senses are far greater than ours. Dogs just know when someone is bad news and will often bark to warn their human owners. Even a small dog is likely to ward off unwanted visitors. And just remember, the more you love and look after a pet, the more likely it is to do the same for you. Visit the kennels to find the best friend you’ll ever have.
