Your home is your castle, an oasis of peace and your personal treasure chest. However, if not protected properly, it can become a target for burglars. Not all home burglaries are random; some are planned, and they often occur when homeowners inadvertently make their homes attractive to criminals.
Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of the habits that could be putting your home at risk of burglary. Here are 15 simple habits you might be doing that could potentially invite burglars into your home.
1. Leaving the Lights On All the Time
Leaving your lights on all day and night might seem like a good idea to deter burglars, but it can actually have the opposite effect. Why? Because doing so can indicate to burglars that you’re trying to make it look like someone is home, which may suggest that your house is empty.
Instead, try to use timers that can turn your lights on and off at different times of the day to create the illusion of an occupied home. Also, consider using energy-efficient LED bulbs to save on electricity costs.
2. Ignoring Your Landscaping
A well-maintained yard can do more than just enhance your home’s curb appeal; it can also deter potential burglars. Overgrown shrubs, trees, and plants can provide perfect hiding spots for burglars, giving them cover as they try to break into your home.
To prevent this, make sure to regularly trim any overgrown vegetation, especially those around windows and entrances. Also, consider planting thorny bushes near windows as an extra deterrent.
3. Not Securing Your Air Conditioning Unit
Your air conditioning unit can provide an easy access point for burglars, especially if it’s not properly secured. They can easily remove the unit and gain access to your home through the window.
So, it’s crucial to secure your air conditioning unit properly. You can do this by installing an air conditioner bracket, cage, or corner braces. Also, make sure to lock the window that holds the unit.
4. Posting Your Vacation Plans on Social Media
While it’s tempting to share your vacation countdown or check-ins on social media, doing so can attract the attention of burglars. By posting about your vacation, you’re essentially announcing to the world that your home will be empty.
Wait until you’re back home before posting about your trip. If you really feel the need to share, only do so with trusted friends and family, and double-check your privacy settings.
5. Leaving Spare Keys in Obvious Places
Leaving a spare key under the doormat or a flower pot may be convenient, but it’s also one of the first places burglars check. A better option is to give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or family member.
If that’s not an option, consider investing in a smart lock that allows you to unlock and lock your doors remotely. Some models also allow you to create temporary digital keys for guests and service people.
6. Not Using a Home Security System
A home security system can be one of the most effective deterrents for burglars. However, simply having a system isn’t enough; you need to use it consistently, even when you’re at home.
There are many types of home security systems available, from monitored alarm systems to DIY options. Choose one that fits your needs and budget, and make sure to display the security company’s sign in your yard to ward off potential burglars.
7. Failing to Secure Sliding Doors and Windows
Sliding doors and windows can be easy entry points for burglars, especially if they’re not secured properly. One common method burglars use is to simply lift the doors or windows off their tracks.
To prevent this, install a bar or rod in the track of the sliding door or window. You can also install additional locks or security bars for extra protection.
8. Not Locking Doors and Windows
This may seem obvious, but many burglaries occur because doors and windows were left unlocked. Even if you’re just stepping out for a few minutes, make sure to lock all doors and windows.
Don’t forget about the garage door, the door between the garage and the house, and any upper-floor windows. All of these can provide easy access points for burglars.
9. Leaving Valuables in Plain Sight
Leaving valuable items, like electronics, jewelry, and cash, in plain sight can attract burglars. Instead of leaving them out, try to keep them out of sight from windows.
Consider investing in a home safe for your most valuable items. But remember, a safe is only as secure as its hiding place, so make sure to choose a discreet location.
10. Not Getting to Know Your Neighbors
Your neighbors can be one of your best security assets. They can keep an eye on your home when you’re away, pick up your mail, and report any suspicious activity.
So, make an effort to get to know your neighbors. Consider joining or starting a neighborhood watch program for added security.
11. Leaving Ladders and Tools Out
Ladders and tools can be used by burglars to gain access to your home. Therefore, it’s essential to store them in a locked shed or garage when they’re not in use.
Also, remember to lock up any other items that could be used to break into your home, like bricks, rocks, and heavy garden ornaments.
12. Not Shredding Important Documents
Documents containing personal information, like bank statements and credit card offers, can be used by burglars to steal your identity. So, make sure to shred these documents before throwing them away.
Consider investing in a cross-cut shredder, which cuts paper into tiny pieces, making it harder for burglars to piece together your information.
13. Allowing Mail and Packages to Pile Up
An overflowing mailbox or a pile of packages at your front door can signal to burglars that you’re not home. If you’re going to be away for a while, ask a neighbor to pick up your mail and packages.
Alternatively, you can request a mail hold from the post office and ask delivery companies to hold your packages until you return.
14. Not Changing Locks When Moving Into a New Home
You never know who might have a copy of your keys when you move into a new home. Therefore, it’s crucial to change the locks as soon as you move in.
Consider installing deadbolt locks for added security. And remember, a quality lock is only as strong as the door and frame it’s installed in, so make sure these are in good condition as well.
15. Not Using Curtains or Blinds
Curtains and blinds can prevent burglars from seeing into your home. Without them, burglars can easily see whether anyone is home and spot any valuable items.
Install curtains or blinds on all windows, and make sure to close them when you’re not home or at night. Consider using light-filtering curtains or blinds that allow light in while still providing privacy.
