You likely know someone who has been the victim of a home burglary. There has been an increase in home invasions, and folks need to take extra caution when it comes to securing their homes. All neighborhoods are targets for break-ins. This article describes some information that can be used for boosting your home’s security.
Let a house cleaner have your keys only if they can provide you with references so you can verify their trustworthiness. If you do give your housekeeper a key or plan on doing so, it is imperative that they are honest and upstanding. Ask for references and check them thoroughly. If they work for a firm, call the local Better Business Bureau to find out that firm’s reputation.
Is your dog kept outside when you are away? If so, you can use your dog to hide your spare key. Attach the key inside their collar and make sure it can’t be seen. If your dog is suspicious of strangers, you have found a good hiding place for your key.
There are more features to a home alarm system besides making sounds when people break in. Many systems can be used to go off whenever anyone enters your home. This can be useful if you’ve got small children that are able to open doors.
When placing your spare key outside for emergencies, give careful consideration to where you put it. Intruders will more than likely check under your doormat or above your door frame. An example would be to attach a key to your dog’s collar, if he stays outdoors.
Don’t let people into your home unless you know them. No matter how innocent a person may seem or how interesting the product he or she may be offering, you must not allow access. Some people will simply knock on your door to see whether or not there is a security system installed, and if there isn’t, they may target you later when you’re away.
Contact the local police department to find out more about the protection programs they offer. Some police departments offer things like code numbers to help find your valuables should they get stolen. Call them up to find out more.
Be sure to keep your car in your garage rather than filling your garage with stored belongings. In this way, your car will be safer. Keeping your car in your house will deter intruders from vandalizing or stealing it. It will also keep any intruders from knowing when you’re home.
The first thing to do is get your locks changed out. This could be an ex-spouse or roommate you got into a fight with. This doesn’t usually cost much, and it can be accomplished in less than a day.
Do you live out in the country? If so, you might not be as worried about burglars breaking in as those people in the city are. Some maintain that rural dwellers have greater risk since their neighbors live farther away. Others hold that burglars are not as likely to target rural areas.
Lock the house, even if just going away for a short time. Many home thefts start with the thief simply walking in an unlocked door or window. It does not take long for thieves to steal your expensive stuff.
Your flashlights should always be equipped with good, working batteries. They will help you get around in case your entire home is dark. Be sure everyone in your family is aware of the location of emergency flashlights.
If the home you are moving into is not brand new, you should change the locks on all the doors. Previous tenants may have given the keys back to the landlord, but it is always possible to make copies of keys. You might even install new locks yourself so that you know you have the only keys.
Avoid thinking that home burglaries only happen at the most expensive houses. Thieves target houses that are easily broken into. Protect your family and your home against burglars by following the tips presented here.