Protecting Your Home From Burglary

           How to Protect Your Home

American homes are victims of burglary about every 15 seconds, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. The typical homeowner suffers a loss of nearly $2,000 in stolen goods or property. If you have a high deductible on your homeowners insurance policy, you'll likely have to pay out of pocket to replace your stuff. But for a small investment, you can make your home less appealing to burglars in the first place. Here are some simple tips to keep you and your home safe!

Check Locks and Latches -  Sixty percent of all burglaries take place at ground floors and windows. Check locks and latches on windows and doors to your regular maintenance routine. All it takes for a thief to gain entry is a single broken latch. 

Draw The Blinds- Use shades, drapes and other window treatment to keep potentially tempting household items out of view. Burglary is a crime of opportunity and "window shopping" is one way criminals choose potential targets.

Cut Back Trees and Hedges - Maintain sight lines to the street by removing trees and hedges that obscure key entry points into the house. The lack of a suitable place to hide is sometimes enough to deter would-be criminals.

Alarm System - Consider an adding alarm system. Modern systems offer features like remote access, security cameras and 24-hour monitoring. 

Security Lights - Install security lights anywhere a potential thief might look to gain entry to your home, including back doors, attached or detached garages, covered porches and any other outbuildings. Adequate nighttime illumination is critical, because a dark or poorly lit property makes it easier for a burglar to go about unseen.

Beware of Bragging - Avoid broadcasting big-ticket purchases via social media - this could be an invitation for trouble. It's also a good idea to shred any receipts or credit card statements that may alert thieves to your recent purchase (this also helps prevent identity theft). Be sure not to draw undue attention to your home by discarding empty boxes at the curb with your trash- this is a big problem especially during the holidays.

Keep Control of Keys - Get in the habit of gathering keys from contractors or household helpers after they are done. Be careful about using a smart key system that allows you to re-key locks yourself - some are easily picked.

Keep a List of All Valuables- Keep a list of all your valuables and take pictures of them as well.

Use Common Sense-  But the best form of protection is simply to lock all your doors and windows whenever you leave your home. It's amazing how many people don't do this, and yet it is the simplest and best thing anyone can do!

If you have other suggestions please share them below! At Innovative Realty Group we not only care about helping you find a home but care about your safety as well!