subject: Tips for Securing Your Home Completely [print this page] Tips for Securing Your Home Completely Tips for Securing Your Home Completely
No one likes the idea of thieves getting into their homes and properties. Unfortunately, it is a widely expressed opinion that a burglar or thief will get in if he is a little more industrious and experienced.
So, while a few thieves might be resourceful and seemingly unstoppable, it is possible to make their entrance nearly impossible or very difficult. With this, even the majority of them that cannot think or are not resourceful can be deterred. Here are a few ways to discourage burglars from entering your home.
1. Install Deadbolt Locks
Typically, most homes have cheap spring latch locks that will give way with just one determined kick from the outside. Others have glass frames that can be easily shattered without any harm whatsoever to the burglar. To prevent any easy entrance, install deadbolt locks that can be opened from the inside. An even better option is the double dead bolt lock. These locks are strong in that the throw connects with the frame, making it harder for the door to be kicked open.
2. Replace the Screws in the Lock and Door Hinges
Most screws used in securing the door to the door frame and the keys locks are about an inch in length. Remove these and screw the locks and door hinges with screws that are at least three inches. This helps attach the door hinges, but also passes through the door casing into the door frame. So, whoever wants to kick the door down will have to be ready to kick the frame down too- a pretty difficult thing to do without attracting attention.
3. Look Out for the Windows and Patio Doors
The patio doors and windows are normally built and positioned so that it will be easy to unhinge them and clean them. While this is good, it also makes access to your home easier. So, to prevent this, add screws to the top track of the windows of patio doors. Do not drive them all the way in. Leave about a quarter of an inch outside. This way, the windows and doors will not be unhinged while closed. For cleaning, you can easily unhinge by opening patio door or window and lifting it out of its hinges.
4. Trim All Hedges and Grown Grass
While a lawn and good hedges are great and offer some form of privacy, they can also be hiding places for lurking burglars. So, ensure that you grasses and hedges are trimmed properly. Prune all trees that are close to the house as burglars may be able to access the house through branches that are closer to the window or roof.
5. Install Motion Detectors, Alarms and Security Lights
Finally, install motion detectors, security cameras, alarms and security lights. Burglars are less likely to attempt breaking into a place whose compound is well lit. And even when they do, the combination of motion detectors, alarms and security cameras will make entry into the home, nearly impossible.
