Most of us are pretty careful when it comes to home security. We make sure to lock our doors at night and when we leave the house, set the alarm if we have one, and maybe even keep a watchful eye on our neighbors' comings and goings.
But even the most security-conscious among us can make mistakes that leave our homes vulnerable to burglars. In fact, many of the things we do to increase our home's security can actually make it more inviting to burglars.
Here are seven of the most common ways we invite burglars into our homes – and what you can do to avoid them:
1. Leaving Doors and Windows Unlocked
Leaving doors and windows unlocked is one of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to home security. Burglars are often opportunistic and will take advantage of easy access to a home. Make sure to always lock your doors and windows when you leave the house, and consider investing in a home security system with motion sensors to alert you when someone is inside your home.
2. Hiding Keys in Obvious Places
Hiding a spare key under the doormat or in a flowerpot is a mistake many people make. Burglars know to look for these hiding spots, so it's best to find a more secure spot or invest in a keyless entry system.
3. Failing to Trim Back Bushes and Trees
Tall bushes and trees provide great hiding spots for burglars looking to break into your home. Keeping your landscaping trimmed will help to eliminate potential hiding spots.
4. Leaving Valuables in Plain Sight
Leaving valuable items in plain sight is a surefire way to attract burglars. Keep your valuables out of sight and in a secure location, such as a safe or locked cabinet.
5. Leaving Lights Off at Night
Leaving the lights off at night is one of the most common ways we invite burglars into our homes. It's easy to think that turning off the lights will save us money on electricity, but it can also make our homes easier targets for criminals. Instead, consider leaving a few lights on in strategic locations around the house, such as near windows and doors. This will make it appear as though someone is home, while also providing a measure of safety and security. Additionally, installing motion-sensor lights around the perimeter of the house can help deter criminals and alert you to their presence.
6. Skimping on Home Security
Many of us try to save money by cutting back on home security measures. We might opt for cheaper locks, skimp on alarm system maintenance, or even leave windows open. But these cost-cutting measures can actually leave our homes more vulnerable to burglars. To ensure your home is secure, invest in quality locks, regularly check your alarm system, and keep your windows and doors closed and locked while you're away.
7. Relying on Your Dog for Security
Having a dog can be a great deterrent for burglars, but relying solely on your pup for home security is a mistake. Dogs can be a great first line of defense, but they can also be bribed or distracted. To really protect your home from intruders, invest in a comprehensive home security system that includes motion sensors, cameras, and an alarm. With the right security measures in place, your four-legged friend can be a great addition to your home's defense.
Conclusion
There are several ways we can inadvertently invite burglars into our homes. By being aware of these mistakes, we can take steps to correct them and help keep our homes safe. Some of the most common mistakes include leaving doors and windows unlocked, hiding keys in easy-to-find places, and not having a good home security system in place. By taking simple precautions, we can make our homes much less inviting targets for burglars.
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