Whether you’re going out of town or you’re at work, the idea of someone breaking into your home is scary…
Here are 5 things burglars look for regarding your home security:
- Is there an alarm system?
- Is there a dog?
- Is anyone home?
- Is there good coverage?
- Are doors or windows open?
1. Is there an alarm system?
Thieves want to get in and out of your home quickly and without detection. They’ll case the home to see if it’s alarmed. They might look through a window for a control panel inside. Burglars also might look for a surveillance camera above or near the door.
*Pro Tip* Thieves get nervous when they see alarm signs placed around a home’s exterior.
2. Is there a dog?
Thieves don’t want to get bitten by a dog, and they don’t want them barking. After all, a barking dog alerts neighbors that something is wrong. If you have a dog already, great. Make it obvious!
*Pro Tip* Even if you don’t have a pet, put a big dog bowl outside or a lawn sign warning that a dog lives there. A thief doesn’t want to mess with a dog.
3. Is anyone home?
If a person is breaking in, they’ll try to avoid running into the homeowner. Getting in and out quickly is the priority, they want to limit their time inside the house looking for valuables. Having someone at home changes the whole operation, as they can call the police or trigger an alarm. They also may be able to identify the thief to police. Be sure to make it obvious when you are at home.
*Pro Tip* When you’re on vacation, automate your house lights so that inside lights turn on when motion is detected outside your home.
4. Is there good coverage?
A thief doesn’t want to be detected going into or out of a home. If the home has a high fence, that might be the protection the thief is looking for, especially if neighboring homes don’t face into the yard from a second level. A homeowner should look at their home from a burglar’s perspective and figure out where someone can hide from view and whether there’s enough lighting around the home. A high fence can also be a deterrent if it’s locked, making it difficult for a thief to enter or exit.
5. Are doors and windows open?
When the weather is nice, it feels good to let in the cool breeze. Open windows are good for that, but they make for easy burglar access, especially if you leave the window open when you’re not home. A screen isn’t burglar protection, as it can easily be cut apart. If you’re going to leave a window open, make it a second floor window that’s difficult to enter from the outside, or use the window stoppers that only allow a small opening. The same goes for the door. Leave the door locked, even when you’re home. A thief might test the door first, and you don’t want any surprise visitors.
Interested in a Sting Alarm smart home security system? Fill out a “free quote” form and one of our Sting Alarm Security Professionals will reach out to consult you. 😊
