Nationwide, an estimated 1,401,840 burglaries took place in 2017, according to the most recent FBI data. Burglary victims suffered $3.4 billion in property losses that year, and approximately 67% of those burglary crimes took place in the home. While the numbers may seem daunting, there are plenty of things that you can do right now to protect your family from a break-in. Follow these home crime deterrent strategies so that you can rest easier and prevent your home from becoming another crime statistic.
#1: Stop hiding spare keys
Many burglars will enter your home the exact same way you do — by casually strolling through your front door. Burglars view this as the easiest and least suspicious point of entry, and will often rely on forgetful homeowners stashing away a spare set of keys around their home to make their way in. Even if you think your hiding spot is clever, chances are a seasoned thief will know where to find it. A better option is to leave a spare set with a trusted neighbor or friend.
#2: Keep your entries visible
Windows and doors that are tucked behind thick bushes, tall fences or other objects are prime targets, because thieves can safely hide behind them as they work to gain entrance to your home. This makes it important to keep your main entry points clear and well-lit by cutting back hedges, adding security lights, and removing other large objects that may block a neighbor’s view.
#3: Lock up
Many home robberies are crimes of opportunity. Making it a habit to lock all doors and windows before leaving your home is the easiest way to deter potential burglars from entering your home. You can also look at installing smart locks that allow you to “turn the deadbolt” right from your mobile device. This can give you piece of mind after a rushed morning or if you have kids that may not always remember to lock up behind them.
#4: Start a neighborhood watch program
Starting a neighborhood watch program doesn’t have to be a large undertaking, and can be extremely effective in deterring criminals from targeting you or your neighbor’s homes. You can register with the National Neighborhood Watch, set up a meeting with your neighbors, and even purchase a street sign that lets burglars know they have eyes on them.
#5: Install a Home Security Camera System
The most effective way to deter a home burglar is to let them know they are being watched. When thieves see that your home is equipped with a video surveillance system tracking their every move, they are most likely to move on to an easier target. Your security camera system should include strategically placed cameras that are both visible to burglars scoping out properties, and that are capable of capturing high-definition footage that can be used by police to capture any criminal desperate enough to enter your home.
Call Maryland Security Professionals to learn more about home security camera systems, and how we can customize a set-up for you that meets your needs and budget. Don’t hesitate when it comes to protecting that which is most precious to you. If you live in Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, Washington D.C. or anywhere else in the mid-Atlantic region, call us for a free security audit and learn how we can help you safeguard your home from a potential burglary.
Additional resources:
- https://www.nnw.org/register-watch
- https://ucr.fbi.gov/crime-in-the-u.s/2017/crime-in-the-u.s.-2017/topic-pages/burglary