Holiday Hours:

Closed Christmas (Closed 25th, Half-Day 24th), New Year's (Closed 1st, Half-Day 31st).

Top 10 Burglary Prevention Tips

Key Takeaways

1. With rising concerns about burglary in many neighborhoods, taking proactive steps to enhance home security has never been more crucial.

2. Securing doors and windows with deadbolts is essential for deterring burglars and protecting your home.

3. For expert help in improving your home security, contact Great Valley Lockshop, serving Chester, Montgomery, and Delaware counties.

Burglary Prevention Tips for Homeowners

Home security is a critical concern for homeowners, especially in high-crime areas. Recent reports on the top burglarized cities in Pennsylvania suggest the constant need to be on your toes when it comes to home security.

Implementing smart security practices can greatly reduce the risk of break-ins, giving you peace of mind. The following tips offer effective ways to protect your home and belongings, from securing entry points to using the latest security technology.

1. Secure Doors and Windows

Always lock your doors and windows, even if you’re home or just stepping out briefly. Deadbolt locks offer greater security than standard locks and can act as a strong deterrent to burglars.

2. Install a Home Security System

A comprehensive home security system is key to safeguarding your property. Motion detectors, door sensors, and video cameras provide ongoing monitoring. Display security system signs prominently, as burglars tend to avoid homes with visible security measures.

Partner with professional locksmiths from Great Valley Lockshop. Our team of trustworthy locksmiths can help you improve your home security system by installing advanced security solutions.

3. Maintain Your Property

Keep your yard well-maintained with proper lighting and trimmed landscaping. This signals that the home is occupied and cared for, making it less attractive to burglars. Shoveling snow and removing debris also gives the appearance of consistent occupancy.

4. Use Smart Locks and Garage Doors

Smart locks can auto-lock and send reminders if a door is left open, providing an additional layer of protection. Smart garage doors with automatic locking and motion sensors further enhance security, especially for a common entry point like the garage.

5. Obstruct the View into Your Home

Prevent potential burglars from seeing inside by using curtains or blinds to cover windows. Keeping valuables out of sight also reduces the temptation for thieves to target your home.

6. Get to Know Your Neighbors

Building a sense of community with your neighbors can help create a neighborhood watch. Neighbors can be vigilant, making it harder for burglars to go unnoticed.

7. Use Technology to Simulate Occupancy

Smart home technology, such as automated lighting, music, or appliances, can give the impression that you’re home even when you’re not. Simple devices like lamp timers can also help create this illusion.

8. Secure Additional Entry Points

Don’t forget to secure secondary entry points, like porches and garden gates. Ensure that these areas are locked and protected with deadbolts or strong fencing.

9. Document Your Belongings

Keep a record of your valuable items by taking photos and logging serial numbers. Marking belongings with invisible ink or engravings can help recover stolen property.

10. Be Mindful of Social Media and Personal Information

Avoid posting about upcoming trips or vacations on social media. Publicly sharing such details can attract unwanted attention from potential burglars. Additionally, keep personal information like calendars out of sight to avoid revealing when you’re away from home.

What is the biggest deterrent for burglars?

The most effective deterrent for burglars is the significant likelihood of being caught. A sure way to protect your home is to make burglars think twice before attempting a break-in.

Studies show that the certainty of being caught is the strongest deterrent. By combining several security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of a burglary. Here are key factors that provide a robust defense for your home.

  • CCTV cameras are a significant deterrent, as burglars avoid being recorded and identified.
  • Alarm systems connected to emergency responders are often avoided by burglars due to the risk of immediate detection.
  • Nottingham Trent University research highlights a security combination called WIDE (Window locks, Indoor lights on a timer, Door deadbolts, and External lights), which is 49 times more effective at preventing burglaries.
  • A multi-layered security approach combining cameras, alarms, and timed lighting significantly reduces the risk of break-ins.

Securing your home requires a multi-layered approach. Visible security measures like CCTV cameras, alarms, and strategically timed lighting can deter burglars by increasing their risk of being caught. By investing in these tools, you can protect your home and provide peace of mind for yourself and your family.

What is the best defense for burglary?

The best defense against burglary is a combination of multiple security measures that make it harder for intruders to enter your home. Here’s a simplified list of the most effective strategies:

  1. Install high-security locks (e.g., deadbolt lock or smart lock).
  2. Use a monitored home alarm system.
  3. Set up security cameras.
  4. Install adequate exterior lighting or motion-sensor outdoor lighting.
  5. Reinforce windows and doors.
  6. Secure your garage and shed.
  7. Join a neighborhood watch program.
  8. Use security signage.
  9. Keep landscaping trimmed.
  10. Utilize home automation for remote control.

These steps create layers of protection, significantly reducing the risk of burglary. Purchase your burglary prevention tools from a trusted locksmith or hardware store. Protect your home and enjoy peace of mind with Great Valley Lockshop’s top-tier security solutions.

Whether you need high-security locks, alarm systems, or reinforced doors, we’ve got you covered. Our residential services are available in Pennsylvania, including Chester, Montgomery, and Delaware counties. Contact Great Valley Lockshop today to learn how we can help secure your home and keep your family safe.

How Can I Reduce My Chances of Being Burgled?

In burglary prevention, equipping your house and family members with the right tools is key. Nowadays, keeping the garage door closed is no longer enough. You need to install deadbolt locks and a sturdier door frame to keep people with ill intentions away.

In addition to the burglary prevention tips we mentioned, you can follow these preventive actions to further enhance your home security:

  • Use a smart alarm system that alerts you and authorities via your smartphone.
  • Install high-definition security cameras with night vision and remote access for monitoring.
  • Integrate smart locks and lights that you can control remotely to create the appearance of being home.
  • Upgrade to strong doors with deadbolts and impact-resistant windows to resist forced entry.
  • Apply security film to windows to make them harder to break, adding an extra layer of protection.
  • Use thorny plants near entry points and keep landscaping tidy to eliminate hiding spots for intruders.
  • Get involved in community watch groups to share information and watch out for each other.
  • Install door/window sensors that alert you if they are opened and motion detectors for added security.
  • Periodically assess your home’s security and make necessary improvements.
  • Teach family members about security practices and how to respond in case of an emergency.

These actions can help create a safer environment and deter potential burglars.

Improve Your Home Security and Keep Burglars Away

Home security is more critical than ever, especially with rising concerns about burglary in many neighborhoods. Taking proactive steps to enhance your home security not only protects your property but also provides peace of mind for you and your family. Here are the top three actionable steps you can take right now to deter burglars:

  1. Secure Doors and Windows. Always lock all entry points, including doors and windows. Consider upgrading to deadbolt locks for added security.
  2. Install a Home Security System. Invest in a comprehensive home security system with motion detectors and cameras. Visible security measures can deter potential intruders.
  3. Maintain Your Property. Keep your yard well-lit and well-maintained to create the impression of an occupied home. Trim shrubs and trees to eliminate hiding spots.

Taking these steps can significantly enhance your home’s security and help keep burglars away. For expert assistance in improving your home security, contact Great Valley Lockshop.

Our professional locksmiths are ready to help you implement advanced security solutions tailored to your needs. We proudly serve Chester, Montgomery, and Delaware counties, ensuring your home is safe and secure. Don’t wait until it’s too late—reach out today!

Author Picture

Let’s Get You A Free Estimate

Discover what thousands of our customers already know: When you hire Great Valley Lockshop you can expect us to be prompt, passionate and genuinely enthusiastic about your project!

Member of ALOAAllegion Locksmith PartnerYelp Locksmith 5 StarsGoogle Locksmith 5 Stars
Estimate

We are serious about privacy. We will never share your information with third parties. Please read our Privacy Policy for more information.

Great Valley Lockshop