Having your home broken into can be a terrifying experience. Even if you're not there when it happens, such an event can shatter your sense of security and make you feel unsafe. If you're there when it happens, your very life could be at risk.
But many burglaries can easily be prevented if homeowners avoid making home security mistakes that put their homes at risk of break-ins, such as leaving windows unlocked or hiding a spare key outside. As long as you avoid making those mistakes, most burglars will likely skip your home in search of an easier target.
Here are common home security mistakes you may be making that leave your property vulnerable to attack: (h/t to AskAPrepper.com)
1. Leaving the screen door unlocked
Most people like to leave their main doors open in the summer so that the cool breeze can flow through their screen door, which is usually left unlocked. Contrary to popular belief, many burglaries occur during the day when people least expect it, so always lock your screen door during the day.
It's better to be mildly inconvenienced by the need to lock and unlock the door every time you go out, but it's better than having your home easily broken into in the middle of the day.
2. Leaving ladders outside
Don't make it easy for intruders to attempt a second-story break-in by leaving your ladder out in the yard. In most cases, burglars won't consider a second-story entry unless they see an opportunity to do so. Prevent intruders from using your ladder by storing it away safely in a lockable outdoor shed or inside the garage.
3. Leaving second-story windows unlocked
Intruders will do anything it takes to break into a desirable home, including scaling your walls to enter through an unlocked second-story window. Always lock anything they can use as a point of entry.
4. Posting about your absence on social media
Many people are so quick to post about their absence on social media platforms by sharing holiday photos, posting status updates with information about their current location and more. By doing so, you may be making your home an easy target. If you want to post or talk about your vacation, do so when you're already home.
5. Opening the door to strangers
Never open the front door to unexpected visitors. You could be opening your door to your home to an intruder. Install at least one outdoor camera covering your front door so that you can easily check whoever is knocking without having to open it.
6. Leaving the garage door opener in your vehicle
It's one thing to park your vehicle outside of the garage and another to leave the garage door opener inside that vehicle. If someone were to break into your vehicle, they could grab the garage door opener and easily access your garage and, in turn, your home.
Never leave your garage door opener inside your parked vehicle. As much as possible, park inside the garage.
7. Leaving exterior lights burnt out
Houses with exterior lighting are less vulnerable to break-ins because the intruders can't hide their activities under the cover of darkness. Replace exterior lights as soon as they burn out to prevent break-ins.
8. Training your dog not to bark
Some homeowners train their dogs not to bark every time there's a knock on the door. But doing this can put your home at risk of a break-in. Intruders are less likely to see your home as an easy target if they hear loud barking from the inside. Dogs can also easily sense if there are prowlers on your property and will alert you.
Dogs make an effective deterrent to home invasions, so don't train them to go against their nature. (Related: Guard dog: 5 breeds that are perfect for protecting you.)
9. Hiding a spare key outside
No hiding spot is safe from burglars. Experienced burglars will know to check for any spare key hidden in pots, doormats and other items near the front door. Instead of hiding your spare key outside, try installing a deadbolt that operates through a keypad. This allows keyless entry into your home.
Preparedness.news has more articles on how to secure your home and deter intruders from breaking in.
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