5 Common Security Risks Overlooked by Homeowners

by Kevin Smith Author

Many burglaries can be prevented if homeowners take a few simple steps to make their house less of a target. Burglars typically look for homes with expensive items where they can get in and out quickly. Here are some of the most common things burglars look for when choosing their targets.

Keeping Doors Unlocked

A surprising number of burglars enter through unlocked doors or windows. Even if you know and trust your neighbors, you aren’t safe from strangers driving by scouting out easy places to hit. Taking the time to make sure everything is locked is one of the easiest things you can do to deter burglars from your home.

Leaving Blinds Open

Most burglars don’t just select houses randomly; instead, they spend time watching and waiting until they see something worth stealing. If you can limit their view inside your house, you can prevent them from getting a good look at your TV, computer, or other valuables. The same goes for your garage door: keep it closed as often as you can so thieves won’t get a glimpse of your tools and anything else you keep stored there.

Providing Access to Tools

Many homeowners inadvertently provide burglars with the tools they need to break into their homes. Whether it’s leaving a ladder leaning up against the house or leaving the shed full of tools unlocked, many burglaries happen with the aid of crowbars, hammers, and other tools left out for the burglar to use. Not only should you keep all your tools under lock and key, minimize other items burglars might use to break in such as loose bricks.

Advertising Your Absence

Most homeowners know to stop their mail and newspapers when they go away on vacation. However, it’s still easy for burglars to know you’re gone. Find ways to make it look like someone’s still at home, like putting your lights on timers or asking a friend to stop by once a day (at different times). Many residential security systems in Chester, PA, come with cameras you can monitor from your phone. Keep an eye on your house and let the police know if anyone suspicious is hanging around while you’re gone.

Lack of Security System

Burglars are more likely to break into homes without residential security systems in Chester, PA, since they know there’s less of a chance they’ll be caught. Be sure it’s obvious you have a security system installed. Place visible cameras by the doors and leave the security company’s sign in the yard or sticker on the window. All of these will make a burglar think twice before trying to break in.