Burglary Season Tips

Burglaries traditionally increase across the region during the summer months; residents stay out later, go on vacation, or leave their windows open during the day. Below are a few tips to prevent your home from being burglarized:

Secure Your Windows

• Windows are more popular targets in the summer, as the plastic comes off & windows are left open for ventilation.
• Never count on a screen, plastic tabs or even a regular lock to deter a determined offender.  Lock windows AND use wooden dowels, horizontal bars or through the frame nails to prevent the window from being fully opened.
• An air conditioning unit is the same as leaving a window open; reinforce these windows with dowels, or place them in windows that can’t be accessed from the ground or a porch.
• Do not leave lawn furniture or other objects out that could be used to reach a window.
• If you are not home for a short period in the evening, consider leaving a light or electronic device on to make your home look occupied.

Track Your Property

• Portable electronics are the most targeted item in burglaries. Keep a hard copy list of important serial numbers.
• Photograph unique items (such as jewelry) to aid in identification & recovery.
• Consider giving your property unique markings (such as an engraving).
• Photograph unique items (such as jewelry) to aid in identification & recovery.

Be Vigilant

• If you leave for an extended period, ask your neighbors or a friend to watch your house; have them deliver mail or leave their car in the driveway.
• If you see a suspicious person or group entering a backyard or driveway, or a person or vehicle “casing” an area, do not hesitate to call the police.
• Call the police IMMEDIATELY if your house has been burglarized; the burglar may still be in the area.

Long Term Solutions

• Consider installing an alarm or external cameras.
• Make the sides of your house more visible from the street; trim overgrown bushes/hedges & remove other obstacles.
• Install deadbolts from well known brands like Schlage or Kwik Set. Cheap deadbolts are easy to penetrate.

Need more information and tips? Ask for our FREE eBook, 7 Things Homeowners Never Consider About Home Security, today at https://keystonesecuritysystems.com/free-resources/index.html