Nine Essential Strategies to Secure Your Home

Home serves as a cherished sanctuary for many, offering safety and comfort to you and your family. Unfortunately, not everyone respects this boundary. Criminals may find your home and belongings tempting, but you can take effective steps to significantly lower the risk. Here are nine practical strategies to help secure your home:

Lock your doors

It may seem obvious, but residents often overlook locking their doors, especially in gated communities where a false sense of security can prevail. However, keeping your doors locked is a simple yet crucial step, as determined intruders can bypass gates.

Add even more barriers to entry

Strengthen your home’s defenses by implementing additional obstacles. For instance, placing a rod or piece of wood in the track of sliding doors can effectively prevent them from opening, therefore deterring unauthorized access.

Install protection devices

If you have a security system, ensure it is activated. If not, consider displaying a security sign in your yard or on your doorway. This can serve as an effective deterrent without the need for an expensive system.

Make a presence — or create one

When a stranger knocks, let them know someone is home without opening the door. If their intentions are dubious and they linger, clearly state your intention to call the authorities and follow through if necessary. When you're out, create the illusion of occupancy by leaving lights, a radio, or a TV on.

Befriend your neighbors

Create an arrangement for your neighbors to collect your mail, newspapers, and trash bins when you’re away. This helps maintain the appearance that someone is home, reducing the risk of burglary during your absence.

Retain clear lines of vision

Clear sight lines from your doors and windows enhance security by allowing you to observe your surroundings. Keep your yard well-maintained and enlist help to manage overgrown plants that may obscure your view.

Don't leave your garage door open

An open garage door can invite unwanted visitors. Keep it closed unless you’re actively using the garage. If working inside with the door open, stay alert to your surroundings and close it promptly when stepping away.

Hide your valuables

Jewelry and other precious items attract thieves, so keep them concealed in discreet places, such as safes, hidden compartments, or storage bins. Avoid leaving jewelry boxes in plain sight to prevent making it easy for opportunistic criminals.

Record IDs and other identifying information

Keep a permanent record of serial numbers from all electronic devices. If items lack serial numbers, engrave them with your information. Photograph yourself with valuable items for easier recovery in case they end up in pawnshops.

By implementing these tips, you’ll enhance the security of your home and belongings. Prioritize safety above all, and in case of a break-in, don’t attempt to confront the intruder. Contact the authorities immediately if you witness suspicious activity or if an incident occurs. Local law enforcement prefers to address false alarms over dealing with potentially harmful crimes.

Moreover, securing your home extends to safeguarding your community. Encourage your local association to enhance communal security through measures like installing access gates, guardhouses, patrols, surveillance cameras, and neighborhood watch initiatives.