Stop Thief, Are You Next?
by Frank LandersSimple Security precautions in your home will not cost a lot of money,it could also save you not just financially but emotionally as well.Just in the few minutes it has taken you to read this security article there will have been five burglaries.
In nearly two thirds of cases break-ins are through the doors of a property,followed by the windows (32%)Home security alarm systems with twenty four hour alarm monitoring, security cameras and quality security locks fitted are all part of the overall security measures offering the best scenario.There are however some simple crime prevention measures you can take that will not cost you anything or are cost very effective to help further protect your home.
Easy crime prevention includes checking that external doors are locked especially at night, fit a suitable door viewer and install a chain and bolt.Put a deadbolt on any cellar or basement doors from the inside if possible or a hasp and good strong padlock on the outside.Shut all the windows as well as the small ones when you go out.Make sure valuables are out of sight and not left out where they could be easily taken.Gardening equipment and ladders should be locked away to stop them being used to assist anyone trying to break-in.Do not leave a spare key under the mat or a plant, leave a spare key with a trusted neighbour.
Security lighting is cheap and usually come with built-in PIR motion detector, which will light up when someone approaches your property.Thieves hate to be noticed and the last thing they want is to be seenSecurity lights are also very handy and can provide safe access to your door from unlit areas.
A cheap battery operated PIR Motion detector costs very little and could alert you to an intruder and hopefully frighten them away if they think they are going to be discovered Think about where you place the motion detectors if you have pets or children that could set them off.
Join or start a neighbourhood watch scheme in your area. Your local Police department should be able to give you help and advice to set one up and run it.
When you go out especially in the evening shut the blinds or curtains and leave a radio on, make it look and sound like someone is still in
Fit security window locks, especially to all lower ground windows and dont leave the key in the window when you go out. Security window locks are cheap and easy to fit and are generally available at most DIY stores.
Mark your property with your postal or zip code using a (UV) security pen or engraving and make then less attractive to steal. (It is often harder for them to sell property that has been marked with the true owners post, zip code or details.| Its harder to sell stolen property that has been marked with the real owners zip, post code or details}
Many people do not realise that over the years their property is worth far more than they think. How much does a CD or a DVD cost? Then multiply it by the number you have. Even the modest CD or DVD collection could be expensive to replace and in some cases could be impossible if your favourite CD is not longer available to order. Think about any Jewellery, DVD players, Televisions, Hi-fi, Cameras and video cameras you may have, what would it cost to replace all of these items? You might have insurance but that does not help you replace items of a sentimental value or the now deleted CD or DVD. Its your property and by taking a few simple precautions you could prevent it becoming someone elses!
Its not just the fact that someone has taken your possessions, they have been in your home and through your personal property. Then you have to deal with the Police to report the crime and then the insurance company who want receipts and lots of information. Its also a personal safety issue what would a burglar do if you have him cornered in your house, he will do almost anything rather than be caught. Think of you and the safety of your family
These measures should be in conjunction with other security measures like a home security alarm, high security window locks, security cameras (CCTV) it all helps to prevent your home from being the next crime scene
Most burglaries are opportunist and if you dont give them the opportunity you will save yourself a lot of stress and hassle.