Burglaries occur far more frequently than most people realise, and it does not only result in significant financial loss but also psychological or physical trauma. Fortunately, you can greatly reduce the risk of break-ins with proper prevention and awareness.
Most modern homes are built with state-of-the-art digital security systems. However, if your home does not come with this protection, it is recommended that you take extra security steps to ensure your property, belongings, and family are safe.
In this article, we will share eight ways you can protect your home from intruders.
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Know your neighbours
One of the most important and cost-free ways to protect your home is by building a friendly relationship with your neighbours. They can be your eyes and ears when you are away, especially when you are on a vacation. Allied neighbours can monitor your property and report to you – or the police – if they spot suspicious activity.
In addition, by familiarising them with your family and friends, your neighbours will be aware if a stranger is on your property. The key to a tight-knit community is to simply ensure you do the same for your neighbours in return.
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Install a high-quality CCTV system
CCTV systems are one of the most effective burglar deterrents. It has been shown that the visible presence of a CCTV camera is enough to prevent burglars from targeting your home. When intruders detect a camera, the vast majority will move on to a softer target.
If they still attempt to break in, you will have valuable evidence to provide to the police. Nowadays, high-tech CCTV systems boast crystal clear resolution, making identification much easier. However, do ensure that you get your CCTV supplies from a reliable security system supplier to avoid faulty or low-quality recordings.
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Light up your property’s exterior
It is common knowledge that burglars prefer breaking into dark, poorly-lit homes as it provides them with the perfect cover. Hence, it is important to ensure that the exterior of your home is well-lit by installing sufficient lighting – high-powered flood lights offer a potent deterrent.
As sky-high electricity prices make it expensive to leave lights on 24/7, it is best to invest in motion sensor lighting from a reliable security system supplier. These lights will alert you if there are any unwanted visitors while also sending burglars fleeing for fear of being caught.
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Groom your yard
If you have rows of big, bushy, and unkept trees or hedges, you are providing the burglars with a handy hideout. However, this does not mean you need to clear out your yard – just keep it neat.
Remove low plants in front of windows and thick branches nearby higher-story windows. You should also prune larger bushes and trees in your yard to remove dark shadows that can easily hide intruders.
While you are at it, you can beef up your backyard security by putting away ladders and tools, locking your sheds and gates, and placing security camera warning signs by your doors to further spook burglars.
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Install a burglar alarm
The old-fashioned method of installing a burglar alarm still serves as a crucial line of defence in modern times. It is not only cost-effective but also extremely reliable as it has been used to ward off intruders for decades.
Upon detecting an unwelcome presence in your home, your alarm triggers an ear-piercing sound that alerts you and your neighbours and forces the burglar to flee. Advancement in technology has improved burglar alarms to not only sound a loud noise but to also alert homeowners from anywhere in the world – and even the police – with real-time footage.
Discuss with your security system supplier the type of alarm system that would best fit your home and lifestyle.
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Automate your home
Smart home technology is not only convenient but it can also help keep your household safe in many ways. With an interconnected home automation system, you can switch on lights, lock or open doors, view real-time CCTV footage, and activate the two-way talk feature on your intercom – all with the press of a button on your smartphone.
These high-tech, remote-activated functions let you monitor your home from anywhere in the world. It is the perfect, fuss-free home security system for those who travel often. Enquire with your security system supplier about how they can automate your home.
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Get a hidden safe
Unfortunately, even if you take all the necessary security precautions, a particular persistent burglar could still find their way inside your home. As a final line of defence, it is recommended that you stash your valuables inside a hidden key-coded safe.
Precious possessions such as jewellery, heirlooms, cash, and important documents, are best kept hidden in a safe that only a few, trusted individuals know of. You could also up security by placing an alarm on the safe opening and in key locations nearby.
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Practise caution and other safety habits
In addition to the above methods, you could also practise these simple home safety habits and tips to further secure your home:
- Check all locks on your windows, doors, security screens, and garage regularly. Ensure they are kept locked, especially when you are not at home.
- Close blinds and curtains when you are away to prevent people from peeping. Keep valuable items hidden or away from windows when you are at home.
- If you will be away for a long period, notify the police and request them to drive by your home.
- When you are on vacation, have someone house-sit your home or at least pick up your mail, to make it appear that there are people at home.
- Never leave a spare key outside. Instead, provide a duplicate to a trusted neighbour or friend who lives close by.
- Avoid putting your personal details in your wallet and on your keys. If you lose them, it will be easy for burglars to track them back to your house and break in.
- Do not open the door immediately when you hear a knock. Communicate through a locked safety screen or through an intercom system to establish who the person is.
Consult security system experts
When it comes to home security, it is better to be safe than sorry. It is recommended that you have a high-quality security system installed for your peace of mind. By consulting security system specialists, you will be advised on which system and technology are best suited for your home and lifestyle. This way you can burglar-proof your home more effectively.
