How to Keep Burglars From Targeting Your Home

Keeping your home safe from burglars requires a combination of strategies to make it an unattractive target. Here are 10 effective ways to deter criminals from breaking into your home.

1. Install Strong Locks

Ensure all entry doors have at least one deadbolt lock with a one-inch throw. Double-cylinder deadbolts are recommended for doors with glass panels to prevent burglars from reaching in and unlocking them. Secure sliding doors with a strong dowel or steel bar in the track to prevent them from being opened from the outside.

2. Be Careful What You Post on Social Media

Using social media is a wonderful way to stay connected with loved ones, but sharing your location while you're away can attract burglars. It's wise to wait until you're back home to post about your vacation or business trip. This way, you avoid signaling to potential intruders that your house is empty.

3. Keep Your Yard Maintained

Trim shrubs and trees to eliminate hiding spots for potential intruders. Overgrown vegetation provides cover for burglars as they attempt to break in. Implementing Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, such as maintaining clear visibility of entry points, can further deter criminals.

4. Secure Windows

Install locks on all windows and add pins or nails to prevent them from being opened more than a few inches. Ensure window air conditioning units are securely fastened to prevent them from being removed and used as an entry point.

5. Display Security Signs

Even if you don't have a security system, displaying signs indicating you do can be a significant deterrent. Burglars often avoid homes with visible security measures to minimize the risk of being caught.

6. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Do not leave expensive items such as grills, lawnmowers, or bicycles visible in your yard. These items signal to burglars that there may be valuable goods inside the home as well.

7. Secure Your Garage

Always keep your garage door closed and locked. An open garage door provides easy access to tools and other valuables, and potentially a way into your home. Consider installing a smart garage door opener for added security.

8. Be Mindful of Your Garage Door Opener

Leaving your remote-controlled garage door opener in your car is convenient, but it also makes it easy for burglars to steal if your car is parked outside. Instead, take the opener inside with you whenever you enter your home to reduce the risk of theft.

9. Get a Dog

Dogs can be a great deterrent. Even small dogs can alert you and your neighbors to an intruder's presence. If getting a dog isn't feasible, consider placing a "Beware of Dog" sign on your property.

10. Install a Security System

A comprehensive security system with alarms, cameras, and motion detectors is one of the best ways to protect your home. Visible cameras and alarm signs can deter burglars before they attempt a break-in. If an intrusion does occur, the alarm will notify you and law enforcement immediately.

Implementing these measures can significantly reduce the risk of a break-in and give you peace of mind knowing that your home is well-protected.

References:10 Simple Ways to Discourage Break-ins | Home Invasion Prevention: 10 Ways to Stop Criminals from Choosing Your Home | 11 Essential Home Security Measures to Deter Burglars