10 Tips for Securing Your Premises
There is no such thing as a home that is completely burglar-proof. However, some homes are more difficult to break into than others. Burglars typically evaluate their targets based on two criteria: the speed of entry and the likelihood of attracting attention. The longer it takes for a burglar to gain entry and the louder they are, the greater the chance they will be seen and caught. Therefore, homes that are difficult and time-consuming to break into are often left alone by burglars. Our goal is to make it more challenging for them to gain access to your property.
Here are 10 ideas to help secure your premises.
1. Layer Your Home Security System
Relying on a single line of defense makes it easy for criminals to bypass your security. Implementing multiple layers not only hinders their progress but also serves as an alert system for you and your neighbors if someone attempts to break in. A good example of a layered defense is using strong padlocks on gates and installing grilles on windows. your neighbours that someone is trying to break in. A good example of a layered defence is having strong padlocks on gates and grilles on windows.
2. Look Out for Blind Spots
Imagine you are a burglar and examine your property for vulnerabilities where someone might gain entry. Stand outside your windows and check if any valuables are visible. If you can see them, then so can potential burglars.
3. Consider the Area Surrounding the Locks
A lock alone is not sufficient for security; you must also pay attention to the area 18 to 24 inches around the lock itself. This is the space that needs protection. A burglar may not care about the damage they cause. Even the best locks in the world won’t help if they break the door down. Likewise, windows can be shattered, and locks can be easily undone.Therefore, it’s wise to add additional layers of security, such as grilles and alarm systems, to enhance your protection.
4. Choose Quality Locks
Many home door locks can be easily bypassed using a knife or screwdriver inserted into the gap between the door and the frame. This allows an intruder to easily manipulate the locking mechanism of most inexpensive locks. Similarly, a thin kitchen knife can be inserted between the sash windows to unlock a standard window lock.
To enhance security for all exterior doors, purchase locks that feature locking tongues. To test the effectiveness of the lock, hold the door open and engage the knob while trying to press the tongue back into the door using your finger. Higher-quality locks will have a secondary tongue that remains stationary. The best locks will have entire tongues that do not move, providing greater security against forced entry.
5. Strategically Plant Thorny Shrubs for Enhanced Security.
Thorny landscaping not only beautifies your home but also makes it unappealing for anyone to approach such windows. Plants like rose bushes, holly, or barberry create a natural barrier that discourages trespassers while adding an aesthetic touch to your yard. Placing these shrubs under windows and along fences can make it difficult for intruders to access entry points unnoticed. Additionally, well-maintained thorny plants blend seamlessly with your landscaping while providing year-round protection.
6. Apply Safety Coating to Your Sliding Doors and Windows
Safety coating is an adhesive plastic sheeting that makes breaking windows and sliding doors difficult. This protective layer holds shattered glass together, preventing easy entry and reducing the risk of injury from broken shards. It also adds an extra level of security by delaying forced entry attempts, giving you more time to react or alert authorities. Additionally, some safety coatings offer UV protection, helping to reduce glare and protect your interior furnishings from sun damage.
7. Cover Rooms with Expensive Equipment
Thin, sheer drapes may be visually appealing, but they also allow burglars to see inside your home. When you have expensive equipment on display, it’s wise to make a habit of closing heavy drapes. This simple action can reduce the chances of your home being targeted for theft.
8. Get A Dog
A barking dog, whether inside the house or in the yard, is proven to be one of the best deterrents to burglars. Criminals tend to avoid homes with dogs, as the noise draws attention and increases the risk of being caught. Even a small dog with a loud bark can be enough to make intruders think twice before attempting a break-in. In addition to security, dogs provide companionship, loyalty, and a sense of safety for you and your family.
9. Join a Neighborhood Watch.
Even just the signs can often deter would-be burglars. An alert and involved community is the criminal’s worst nightmare, often providing enough reason for him to choose another target.
10. Install an Alarm System
Having made it challenging for an intruder to enter your home, an alarm system becomes even more effective as it alerts you and provides an opportunity for help to arrive quickly. Additionally, installing burglar, carbon monoxide, and fire alarms can significantly lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums.
