One of the easiest ways to protect your home is to make sure all doors and windows are locked. Many burglaries happen because people leave their homes with doors or windows open. Even if you are just running out for a quick errand, it’s important to lock everything up. Did you know that most robberies take only about 15 minutes? That’s less time than it takes to grab a burger from a drive-thru!

Cheap Locks

Standard locks are easily picked by burglars. Even if you got a great deal on locks from Walmart, they won’t help much if locksmiths can quickly bypass them.

Clean Up Your Yard

Look around your yard. Do you see things like ladders, toys, or tools lying around? These can be used by burglars to break into your home. For example, a ladder can help a thief reach a second-story window that might be unlocked. Keeping your yard tidy and putting away tools and toys can make your home a less attractive target.

Don’t Hide Keys Outside

Many people think they can outsmart burglars by hiding keys outside, but this is a bad idea. Thieves know all the usual hiding spots, like under fake rocks or mats. Instead of hiding a key, consider giving a spare key to a trusted neighbor or friend.

Keep Your Plans Private

It’s fun to share vacation plans and adventures on social media, but this can be risky. When you post that you are away from home, you are letting everyone know your house is empty. It’s better to wait until you return to share photos and stories from your trip. This way, you don’t advertise that your home is unguarded.

Hide Valuables

You might be proud of your new watch or fancy electronics, but it’s best to keep these items out of sight. A burglar might peek through a window to see if there’s anything worth stealing. If they see expensive items, they might decide your home is a good target. This also applies to social media; avoid posting pictures of valuable possessions online.

Use Proper Lighting

A well-lit yard can deter burglars because they don’t want to be seen. Make sure you have good lighting around your home, especially near doors and windows. Motion-sensor lights are a great way to startle and scare off potential thieves.

Invest in Real Security

Fake security cameras might have worked in the past, but experienced burglars can tell the difference. Investing in a real security system can be a great way to protect your home. Although it can be expensive, the peace of mind it provides is worth the investment.

Stop the Mail

When you go on vacation, don’t let mail pile up in your mailbox or newspapers stack up on your porch. This is a clear sign to burglars that no one is home. Ask a neighbor or friend to collect your mail and newspapers while you are away. You can also request a mail hold from the post office.

Don’t Rely Solely on Your Dog

Dogs can be great at deterring burglars, but they shouldn’t be your only line of defense. Even if you have a big, scary dog, make sure to lock your doors and windows. Combining a dog with other security measures makes your home even safer.

By following these simple tips, you can make your home a less attractive target for burglars. Remember, small actions like locking up, cleaning your yard, and keeping your plans private can make a big difference in keeping your home safe. For more security advice, reach out to a locksmith near me for expert help.