There’s nothing worse than imagining somebody inside your home. It’s the worst violation of property imaginable, and it keeps many homeowners awake at night. Luckily, you can take active steps to reduce the threat of burglary and break-ins. All you need are a few simple home upgrades that you can easily DIY. By implementing security solutions, you decrease the likelihood of burglary significantly. Ready to get a little peace of mind? Let’s take a look.
Alarms – The first and obvious, step is a standard alarm system. Alarms are brilliant because they display a notice or visual clue outside the house too. The experts at Mono Alarms say that simply having an alarm on display is usually enough to deter thieves. Statistics show that almost all household thieves are amateur, local teens. They’re rarely criminal masterminds, and an alarm system will stop them in their tracks. Of course, don’t just rely on appearances. Set the alarm while you’re out at work (the most common time for burglaries) and while you’re on holiday.
Cameras – Small CCTV cameras at the front of your property have a similar deterrent effect as alarms. When potential thieves spot a camera, they’ll almost immediately move on. It’s just not worth the risk. But, again, we must stress the importance of buying a real camera. Some companies now offer decoy or dummy cameras just to scare people. In the unlikely event someone does take the risk, you need to get as much information as possible.
Lighting – Exterior lighting is essential. Nothing scares thieves more than the idea of being lit up for the neighbourhood to see! Burglars like dark spaces to crawl around unseen. Don’t give them the chance. Use motion sensor lights to trigger when it senses someone in its range. Next, install automated lighting systems inside the house. These systems will track your typical light usage over the week. Then, when you’re on holiday, it will replay the exact same usage. Lights will come on sporadically, as if you are still at home.
Change the locks – Some worrying statistics show that we often know our burglars. Most thieves are from the same neighbourhood. You may even have some sort of relationship with them. With that in mind, make sure you change the locks regularly. It means that anyone with an old access key can’t get in.
Use common sense – The last piece of advice is simple: use your common sense. Practice simple safety techniques in the home, and don’t give thieves an easy ride. Keep windows closed and locked while you’re away at work. Don’t give them any entry points whatsoever. Keep your doors locked overnight. Most importantly, get to know your neighbours and the local area. Introduce yourself; make sure people recognise you. If there is any suspicious activity around your house, your neighbours will know about it.
90% of the time, your burglar is not a criminal genius. You don’t need complex laser fields and touch sensors to keep them out! Simple security solutions will do the job.