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Top Priorities to Prevent a Home Burglary

Writer's picture: SafeHomeDiscoveriesSafeHomeDiscoveries



When people ask how to best secure their home. They ask, what systems are the best? And what components are most important? Many people ask about security cameras and doorbells as a first step and some talk about door and window sensors and interior motion detectors. Those are all important components of a security system, but what are the priorities?



We Need to Ask:

  • What are the objectives of your security systems?

  • What are the most common ways burglars gain entry?

  • What does each of these components of a security system do?

 

Keeping the Criminals Out

Many will answer the questions above by saying that a security system will act as a deterrent, and alert occupants, and possibly the police of a break-in. True, cameras, alarms, and sensors can act as a deterrent, but they are designed largely to alert you of a breach and possibly to record the activity. The police love cameras, for the evidence they provide. Is that the priority? Most officers will agree, there are other priorities.

 

Before thinking of using a security system to sense a breach, a more basic objective should be to keep the criminal out. This basic priority is sometimes overshadowed by all the cool technology available today.

 

Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity. Almost 90% of break-ins are unplanned. More than 35% of burglaries are not break-ins at all, but rather “unlawful entry” through the front door. The burglars walk through an unlocked front door. When we look at “Forced Entry” through a door or window we can account for another 58% of burglaries. In many cases of forced entry, very little force is actually used. Keep in mind, about 85% of break-ins are not perpetrated by professional criminals and 88% are committed to pay for an ongoing drug habit. By and large, these break-ins are not sexy, elaborate schemes, hacking through alarm systems and smart locks. Rather the perpetrators are taking an opportunity afforded them by a poorly secured door, and simply pushing in or kicking through the door or window.  

 

First Priorities - Lock and Secure Your Doors and Windows:

Lock your doors, at all times, day. More break-ins occur during the day than at night. Make sure your locks and doors are properly installed and provide ample resistance. Most police officers will note improperly installed or inferior locks and doors as the means of entry.

 

Are You, and Others in the Home Locking Exterior Doors?

  • Develop a habit of always locking your doors.

  • Communicate the importance of locking doors to others in the home.

  • Consider using smart locks to help keep doors locked with automation.






Will Your Locks Keep a Burglar Out? 

  • Is there a quality deadbolt in place?

  • Are the screws on the deadbolt and strike plate tightened?

  • Are the screws being used providing adequate resistance?

  • Can the strike plate itself withstand force?

  • Does the deadbolt latch go into the strike plate properly, or barely touching?

  • Do you need additional lock reinforcement on any doors?

  • Is there any glass on the door that can be easily broken, providing access to the lock?









Addresses these points in more detail and offers product suggestions.


There are many strategies that can be deployed to prevent criminals from entering your home. The articles at safehomediscoveries.com can provide a road map and help you assess your home’s vulnerabilities and set budget priorities.   

 

Plan for Safety,

 

Andy, Senior Editor

 


 

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