Whether you rent or own a property is irrelevant to the hearts that it takes to build your home. Our home as cliche as it sounds is our sanctuary and for that reason, we must do all in our own ability to protect it. According to the FBI, a burglary occurs in the US every 15.4 seconds. In addition, most burglaries occur in the day time when most of us are at work or school. So what can you do to prevent your home from being burglarized you might ask.
Here are a few simple tips.
- Since most burglars enter through the front, back or garage door make sure all entry ways are locked before leaving your home. In addition if you have a vehicle in your driveway or garage make sure the vehicle is locked at all times.
- The average door strike plate is secured only by the soft-wood doorjamb molding. These lightweight moldings are often tacked on to the door frame and can be torn away with a firm kick.Upgrade to a four-screw, heavy-duty, high security strike plate.
- Secure Sliding glass doors and windows by inserting a wooden dowel or stick into the track thus preventing or limiting movement.
- Use anti-lift devices on doors and windows
- Use highly visible alarm decals, beware of dog decals or block watch decal. Use crime prevention or alarm decals on ground accessible windows
- Be a good neighbor.Good neighbors should look out for each other. Get to know your neighbors on each side of your home and the three directly across the street. Invite them into your home, communicate often, and establish trust. Good neighbors will watch out for your home or apartment when you are away, if you ask them. They can report suspicious activity to the police or to you while you are away. While on vacation - pick up newspapers, and flyer or offer to occasionally park your car in their driveway.
Remember to stay alert, secure your home, and be a good neighbor to all!