Here’s a list of 7 essential things you should be doing to protect your home:

As a professional locksmith company with over ten years of experience in the industry, we’ve encountered numerous instances where homeowners could have successfully deterred burglars by taking the appropriate steps to secure their homes. It’s not uncommon for people to overlook essential aspects of home security, leaving their properties vulnerable to potential intruders.

In this blog post, we aim to share valuable insights and expert advice that will help you enhance your home’s security. By implementing the strategies outlined here, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to burglary. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to create a safer environment for you and your family, giving you peace of mind knowing that your home is well-protected.

1. Choose High-Quality Locks

Strengthening your home’s security begins with choosing dependable and robust locking mechanisms. A crucial factor to consider is selecting locks that adhere to high-quality standards, such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Grade 1 certification. These locks, like deadbolts, offer the utmost protection against potential break-ins, as they are designed to withstand significant force. Opting for ANSI Grade 1 locks not only improves your home’s safety but also provides peace of mind.

In addition to traditional high-grade locks, integrating smart locks into your home’s security system is another way to elevate protection. Smart locks come equipped with advanced features that add convenience and fortify your home’s defenses. These features include keyless access, which allows you to unlock your door using a smartphone, key fob, or even biometric data like a fingerprint. This not only provides enhanced security but also eliminates the risk of losing or misplacing keys. Moreover, remote monitoring enables you to check the status of your locks from anywhere, ensuring that your home remains secure even when you’re away.

2. Upgrade Windows and Sliding Glass Doors

Windows and sliding glass doors are often targeted by burglars as potential entry points due to their inherent vulnerabilities. To fortify these areas, consider installing specialized locks designed for these openings. Sash locks, for instance, provide an extra layer of security for windows by preventing them from being opened more than a few inches. Similarly, pin locks can be installed on sliding glass doors, making it difficult for intruders to lift the door off its track.

In addition to locks, applying security film to the glass surfaces of windows and sliding doors can further hinder a burglar’s attempts to break in. This film reinforces the glass, making it more resistant to shattering upon impact. By employing these measures, you not only increase the overall security of your home but also make it less appealing to potential intruders seeking an easy target.

3. Install Exterior Lighting

A well-illuminated property acts as a natural deterrent to potential burglars. Criminals often prefer to operate under the cover of darkness to avoid being seen, so ensuring your home is well-lit can significantly reduce the chances of a break-in.

One effective way to achieve this is by installing motion-activated floodlights around your property, especially near entry points and vulnerable areas. These lights are designed to switch on automatically when motion is detected, immediately illuminating the area and making any potential intruder feel exposed. The element of surprise can also startle burglars, causing them to rethink their plans and potentially flee the scene.

Additionally, it’s essential to pay attention to the overall lighting of your property, including pathways, backyards, and any potential hiding spots. A well-lit property creates a sense of openness, making it less likely for criminals to attempt a break-in undetected.

4. Strategic Landscaping

Overgrown trees and shrubs can offer burglars the cover they need to hide while attempting to break into your home. To mitigate this risk, it’s important to regularly trim back vegetation, maintaining clear sightlines from your home to the street. This not only makes it more difficult for intruders to remain unseen but also deters potential burglars who are looking for easy targets.

In addition to trimming back overgrown plants, consider incorporating strategic vegetation to enhance your home’s security. For example, planting cacti or other thorny plants under windows can create a natural, painful barrier that discourages burglars from attempting to enter your home. This creative use of landscaping can make your property less vulnerable to break-ins.

5. Set Up a Home Security System

Implementing a robust home security system is a powerful method for preventing break-ins. These systems act as strong deterrents for potential burglars, as they increase the risk of being caught. When selecting a security system, opt for one with essential features that cater to your specific needs.

Key components of an effective home security system include alarm monitoring, surveillance cameras, and remote access capabilities. Alarm monitoring ensures that your home remains under watchful eyes, even when you’re away. Surveillance cameras serve as both a deterrent and a means to capture valuable evidence in the event of a break-in. Remote access allows you to control and monitor your home’s security from your smartphone or other devices, providing peace of mind no matter where you are.

By investing in a comprehensive security system tailored to your needs, you significantly reduce the chances of your home falling victim to a burglary.

6. Be Mindful of Social Media

Social media can be a double-edged sword when it comes to home security. While it allows you to share your experiences with friends and family, revealing your whereabouts and travel plans on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter can inadvertently provide potential burglars with valuable information. To minimize this risk, refrain from posting about vacations or extended periods away from home until you have safely returned.

Moreover, adjusting your privacy settings to restrict access to your posts is crucial. By limiting the visibility of your updates to only trusted individuals, you prevent strangers and potential criminals from acquiring sensitive information about your whereabouts. It’s essential to strike a balance between sharing your life’s highlights on social media and maintaining the security of your home.

7. Join a Neighborhood Watch Program

Strengthening your community’s awareness is a proactive approach to deterring burglars and reducing the risk of home invasions. Engaging with your neighbors to form a watchful network allows everyone to contribute to the overall safety of the neighborhood.

Consider joining an existing neighborhood watch program, which typically involves regularly communicating with your neighbors, sharing any suspicious activities or concerns, and keeping an eye on one another’s homes. This collective vigilance creates a strong deterrent for potential intruders who may be scouting the area.

If there is no neighborhood watch program in your community, reach out to local law enforcement to discuss the possibility of establishing one. They can provide guidance, resources, and support to help you get started.

By implementing these tips, you’ll foster a safer environment for your family and increase the likelihood that burglars will choose an easier target. Don’t hesitate to consult a professional locksmith for personalized advice and assistance with lock installation or other security enhancements.

Stay vigilant and keep your home secure!