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Secure The Hatches - Help Prevent Break-Ins
By homejack | June 29, 2008
Yep, it’s true. Most break-ins occur at the most obvious places. Statistics from the Burglary Prevention Council show the following information. The number one choice for a burglar is the front door, closely followed by a ground floor window, or a side entrance.
The good news is you don’t have to install an alarm system. With a few preparations and a small investment, you can secure your home and help prevent a break-in. Remember, nothing can make the home totally secure.
Front Entrance: 34% of break-ins happen here. All exterior doors should be solid wood (or quality metal) without glass inserts or side glass panels. A peephole can be placed in the door, even one lower if needed for children. Install solid, pick-resistant locks in the doors.
Place a timer on the outdoor entrance light to illuminate the house at night.
Windows on First Floor: 23% of break-ins happen here. The windows should have a quality sash lock. Wireless alarms for windows are also available. If the window is opened, an alarm is sounded.
Side Entrance: 22% of break-ins happen here. Remember the suggestions for exterior doors above. If a glass sliding door exists, several inexpensive and some homemade remedies are available. Place a rod in the bottom track to prevent the door from sliding and a gadget (hardware or home store) at the top to keep the door from being lifted off the track.
Garage: 9% of break-ins happen here. An electronic door opener is not a security device and is easily decoded. A simple and inexpensive side lock on the inside track will do the job here. Yes, it can be inconvenient for you. Don’t forget that side entrance door if you have one.
Basement: 4% of break-ins happen here. Any doors or windows should be treated as above. Place motion-activated detectors on lights to announce a presence.
Second Floor: 2% of break-ins happen here. Check any windows or doors and make them secure.
Around the House: Keep all shrubbery trimmed and small enough to prevent someone from hiding there. And remember, to increase value and help prevent a break-in, any precaution made will not work if you don’t use it.
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