If you're a homeowner, chances are you've taken precautions to guard against fire and carbon monoxide build-up. But have you also considered the steps you should take to deter against a home burglary?
The onset of summer means that many homeowners will leave their homes for long periods of time in order to go on vacation. Have you taken the appropriate action to deter theft when you are not at home?
An obvious answer to theft-proofing your home is to hire a home security service and install an alarm system that will notify the service if there is an unauthorized entry into your home. But there are some basic steps you can take that discourage theft on a simpler level. Here are just a few:
•Be circumspect about large purchases. Although it can be tempting to brag about the new sports car in the garage or the expensive stereo equipment you've recently purchased, it's smart to keep valuable belongings under wraps. So if you're inclined to chat about the diamond jewelry you just inherited, think carefully about whom you share that information with.
•Keep it under cover. Window treatments – especially at night – can keep prying eyes away from the priceless grandfather clock in the living room or the silver candlesticks on the dining room sideboard. Draw curtains and close blinds at dusk to eliminate prying eyes.
•Lighten things up. Nothing deters a would-be burglar more than lots of interior and exterior illumination. Potential thieves aren't going to want to spend long minutes standing in bright light as they attempt to pick the lock on your door.
•Get a dog. One of the best ways you can protect yourself against a robbery or home invasion is by owning a dog. Even if your dog is the type of friendly creature who rolls over and offers his belly to scratch to anyone who walks by, a thief doesn't necessarily know that, and might not want to risk alarming a noisy – and potentially dangerous – animal. For an extra layer of protection, you can even train your dog to be wary of strangers.
•Post a security sign. Okay, so maybe you don't want to spend the money on a home security service, but by posting a false sign in a window or in your yard, you might be reaping the benefit of that service anyway. Burglars will think twice if they aren't sure whether they might trip an alarm.
•Tell the neighbors. If you're planning to leave on vacation, make sure that your neighbors know that you're going to be gone and when to expect you back. Vigilant neighbors can alert authorities if anything with your property seems amiss. Be sure to leave your contact information behind so that you can be informed in the event of any mishap or break-in.
•Stay on alert. By paying attention to the activity in your neighborhood, you'll likely notice if there's someone lingering around who shouldn't be there. Pay close attention to the behavior of anyone who doesn't seem to belong.
Home robberies are not a frequent occurrence, but those that do occur could possibly have been prevented by a little up-front strategy. By taking a few easy steps, you can protect your home and belongings from theft.
Would you like to know more? Visit www.andoverhomes.com for more information.
