A brief guide to steps a homeowner can take to help prevent home burglaries and break-ins

Buying and maintaining your home will be one of the biggest investments (financially and emotionally) you will make in your lifetime. Protecting that investment is critical. There are many steps you can take to prevent home burglaries and break-ins and keep your investment secure.

burglaries

Prevent breakins

One of the best ways to prevent a home burglary is to invest in an alarm or a home security system. Whether you choose a fast-install home security alarm or a more extensive, professionally installed model, you can enjoy a degree of immediate protection. An alarm system can help deter unwanted intrusions. It can notify you when there is a break-in, whether you are in the house, at the office or out of town.

There are additional steps you can take that can bolster the effectiveness of a home security system. Some of these steps include:

  • Replace old or weak door and window locks with stronger models
  • Install and maintain window and door sensors regularly.
  • Lock the door into your garage.
  • Use a smash-proof security keypad.

Routine maintenance and common sense step around your home can also supplement the effectiveness of an alarm or home security system. Many break-ins happen when a thief notices a pattern that indicating a homeowner’s absence. By taking care of small details that are visible to the outside world, you can prevent theft. When it appears that you are at home, a criminal may be less likely to attempt a robbery.

Some home maintenance tasks known to help prevent burglaries include:

  • Schedule regular lawn maintenance when you are out of towncontrol panel
  • Keep curtains slightly open to give the appearance of being home
  • Do not leave valuables lying out in the open.
  • Make sure tree branches are cut away from windows
  • Avoid using landscaping rocks that could be used to break in
  • Arrange for trash and mail pickup when you are not at home
  • Leave a car in the driveway while you are on vacation
  • Store and secure outdoor tools that could be used to break in (i.e. shovels, axes, hammers)

Many alarm systems come with the option to add home automation controls, which can help you save money on

Home automation supports your home security systems energy costs and routinely turns systems on and off, making it appear as if you are at home. Some home automation features that can help reduce break-in risks include:

  • Light controls or light timers
  • Remote thermostat controls
  • Automatic text updates in the case of a burglary
  • Remote locking and unlocking to allow family members entry
  • Remote arming and disarming of your security system

Your home is your biggest investment and keeping it safe is one of your biggest priorities. QualitySmith can help you by putting you directly in contact with local home security professionals.