Top Burglary Deterrents to Protect Your Home Today
Every year, thousands of homes are broken into. But you can help stop this by using good burglary deterrents. A burglary deterrent is something that scares away a would-be burglar. They don’t want to get caught, so they look for homes without good security measures.
In this guide, we’ll show you easy ways to protect your house. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to stay safe. Many affordable home security systems are great at keeping burglars away.
What Is a Burglary Deterrent?
A burglary deterrent is something that keeps burglars away. It can be a tool, a light, or even a security sign in your yard. Most opportunistic burglars will skip your home if they see something that might stop them.
Some homes are a prime target because they don’t have locks or cameras. If your home looks easy to break into, you are at a higher risk of burglary.
Why You Need to Deter Burglars
No one wants to be a burglary victim. Burglars steal valuable items like gaming systems, money, and jewelry. Some even throw bricks through windows or break glass doors. This can cost a lot of money to fix.
Having good security checks in place gives you extra protection. Plus, some insurance companies give discounts for homes with security camera systems or smart locks.
Best Burglar Deterrents for Your Home
1. Deadbolt Locks
A strong type of deadbolt lock can stop burglars from opening your exterior doors. You can also use anti-snap locks or barrel locks for extra security. Make sure to use inch screws for a tight hold.
2. Smart Locks
Smart locks can lock or unlock with your phone. These are hard for cat burglars to break. You can check your door even if you’re away on travel plans.
3. Security Cameras
Security cameras let you see what’s going on. Some have a two-way audio feature so you can talk to anyone outside. 100% wire-free security cameras are easy to set up and move.
You can even use video doorbells to see who is at your front door.
4. Motion Sensors and Lights
Burglars don’t like to be seen. Motion detection turns on lights when someone walks by. Motion sensor lighting or security lights near garage doors, floor windows, and basement windows helps a lot.
You can also use lights on timers or automatic timers. These give the appearance of activity when you’re away for an extended period of time.
5. Security Signs and Window Stickers
Put up a security system sign or window sticker. This shows you have adequate security. Even if you don’t have a real system, this can be an effective deterrent.
6. Burglar Alarm Systems
A loud burglar alarm can scare off opportunistic burglars. You can also try burglar deterrent gadgets like a burglar beacon or alarms that make noise if windows break.
7. Smart Garage Doors
Keep your garage door opener safe. A smart garage door can close on its own if you forget. Keep your garage doors locked too!
8. Exterior Lights and Bushes
Keep your yard clear. Trim bushes underneath windows so burglars can’t hide. Use exterior lights to light up dark corners. This adds a strong layer of security.
9. Daily Deliveries and Activity Schedule
If you’re away, stop daily deliveries like newspapers or mail. Ask concerned neighbors to pick them up or use a smart device to handle it.
Use tools to create an activity schedule with lights or music. It helps show activity in the neighborhood and your home.
10. Neighborhood Watch Programs
Join a community watch program or Neighborhood Watch Programs. This means more eyes on the street and fewer property crimes. Go to community safety workshops or talk to a crime prevention officer.
11. Professional Monitoring and Security Assessment
You can also pay for professional home monitoring. This means someone is always watching your cameras. Some services like Acme Security or Barry Bros Security help with this.
A crime prevention specialist can give your home a full security assessment and suggest better security measures.
Protect Windows and Doors
Many break-ins happen through basement windows, floor windows, or weak arcadian doors and french doors. Make sure these are strong and locked.
Use a security strike plate and a strong frame with screws on all exterior doors.
If your home has a broken window, fix it right away. A burglar might see it as a weak spot.
Affordable Security Options
You don’t need to spend a lot of money. Some common DIY security systems are very cheap. Even an affordable doorbell camera can help.
Look into budget-friendly security systems for complete home protection.
Help from Insurance
If you have homeowners insurance, your plan might cover theft. Some also offer condo unitowners insurance or commercial insurance if you run a business.
Keep your certificates of insurance updated. Check with insurance companies about coverage.
How to Act if You See Something Suspicious
If you see suspicious activity, tell the police or a crime prevention unit. Also, alert neighbors so everyone knows. Don’t try to stop criminal activity by yourself.
This can help stop a break-in attempt or other type of crime before it happens.
Keep an Eye on Your Neighborhood
Pay attention to activity in the neighborhood. If someone strange is walking around, they might be looking for an appealing target. Share news with your neighbors.
You can even use advertising items like signs or decals to show your home is protected.
Emergency Help for Broken Windows and Doors
If your home was damaged during a break-in, you need to secure it fast. You can call professionals for emergency board-up services. They cover broken windows and doors to protect your home.
👉 Preferred Restoration’s Emergency Board-Up Service in Orange County can help anytime there’s a break-in or storm.
FAQs About Burglary Deterrents
1. What is the biggest deterrent for burglars?
Visible security cameras, security lights, and burglar alarms are some of the biggest deterrents. They scare away burglars fast.
2. Do fake security signs really work?
Yes, a security sign or window sticker can fool opportunistic burglars. It shows that your home might have security camera systems.
3. What should I do before going on vacation?
Use automatic timers for lights, stop daily deliveries, and tell concerned neighbors. Set your smart locks and check your security cameras.
4. Can smart devices help prevent break-ins?
Yes! Smart locks, video doorbells, and motion sensors are great tools. They let you watch your home anytime.
5. What if I see suspicious activity in my neighborhood?
Tell a crime prevention officer or your community watch program. You can also share info with neighbors to stay safe together.
Visit your nearby local emergency responder or contact us today for more information.
