Preventing Break-Ins: How to Keep Your Home Safe from Thieves
November 3, 2017
It’s been reported that in the US, a home is robbed every 14.6 seconds. The average loss is just a little over $2,000. So, if you have a $1,000 deductible on your homeowner’s insurance policy, only half of your loss would be covered.
As the holidays are approaching, here are some strategies for keeping your home safe from would-be thieves:
- Tear up cardboard boxes – There’s no better way for thieves to see that you just bought a new TV, computer, microwave, than by the empty box that is left alongside the trash containers. Tear/cut them up and bundle them so they are inconspicuous.
- Lock doors and windows – It may seem obvious, but most thieves gain access through open doors and windows that someone forgot to lock.
- Don’t hide your keys in the obvious places – Thieves look for the “fake rock.” The ledge above the door. The door mat. Consider leaving it with a neighbor, or in a less conspicuous location.
- Don’t announce your plans on social network sites – While you may be excited to share your vacation plans (or a trip out of town for a wedding or funeral), don’t announce the dates you will be leaving and returning. Wait till you return to post your pictures.
- Do a little landscaping – Cut back bushes and trees that may hide windows and doors, which may also hide a thief from view.
- Replace light bulbs – Another obvious strategy, but a well-lighted house will thwart thefts.
- Close drapes/blinds – Giving someone a clear view of what you have inside can be trouble. Even if you are leaving your home for a short period of time, close the drapes or blinds so thieves can’t see what you own.
Just a little prevention can save you money, as well as the heartache of someone violating your private space.
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Jennifer M. Wilson
Mortgage Advisor
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