Winter can pose some unique challenges to your home security. Even though statistics show that burglaries are lower in colder months, a mild winter like we’re currently experiencing may increase the odds of home intruders. Here are some home security tips for winter, but you can apply them year-round.
Home Security Tip #1: Avoid the Appearance That Your House is Unoccupied
Common signs that thieves look for are a house with no lights on, and open window curtains or blinds so they can see no one is home, and overgrown or untended landscaping. Leaving lights on makes it look like someone is home. This can be especially effective during the middle of the day, when most burglaries occur. Closing curtains while you’re away will keep anyone from scoping out your stuff. Maintaining an orderly yard in winter months shows attention to detail would-be perpetrators prefer to avoid. And trimming back bushes prevents anyone from taking cover right outside your door. If we do experience significant snow, (it could happen!) burglars look for unshoveled walkways and driveways. Shoveling snow away shows lurkers that someone is home and paying attention. Keeping up appearances does more than improve the curb appeal of your home, it could also keep you safe against intruders.
Home Security Tip #2: Install Motion Detector Lighting
What’s even better than leaving a few lights on when you are away? Motion detector lights scare off thieves by literally putting them in the spotlight as they approach your home. Installing these lights in areas around your garage and other entrances will prevent them from sneaking in unnoticed, and are also useful when you are entering or exiting your home in the dark.
Home Security Tip #3: Secure All Your Doors
Burglars are in a hurry, especially when it’s cold outside! One of the most-overlooked home security tips for winter is securing your doors. More and stronger locks are great deterrents. Patio doors in particular can be appealing with their often flimsy locks. Fend off intruders by installing a more advanced lock that prevents break-ins. Glass-break detectors are another measure to alert you to any intrusions and scare away thieves. Another simple but effective trick- put a piece of wood on the door track to block the door from being forced open. On your front and back doors, a second lock provides added hassle to someone trying to break in. A deadbolt lock is your strongest option and best defense. An advanced option is installing a keyless number-pad to your main doors, which only allows people who know the code to lock and unlock the system. You can select the code yourself and change it whenever you need to.
Home Security Tip #4: Get to Know Your Neighbors
A casual lookout from a good neighbor can be the difference between a successful or averted robbery. Seeing something suspicious and giving you a heads up is a simple but valuable way your neighbors can help you if you take the time to introduce yourself. You may even be able to ask a neighbor to keep up the appearance of being home while you are away for the weekend or longer periods, doing simple things like collecting your mail. Making these connections is an easy and inexpensive way to improve your home security.
Home Security Tip #5: Play the Part
Sometimes to prevent a burglary it helps to think like a burglar. Do not leave spare keys in well-known hiding places like under doormats or flower pots. Inspect your house for any weak spots or opportunities an intruder may notice. After installing locks on your windows and doors, make sure they work properly. When working on projects around the house, make sure not to leave a ladder out or a toolbox open for a burglar to take advantage of. Adopting the mindset of a thief can open your eyes to gaps in your home security you would not see otherwise.
Home Security Tip #6: Invest in a Home Security System
Deter would-be burglars this winter
A home security system from TiTan Alarms provides confidence that you are secure in your own home. This is a comfort that many people take for granted until an unexpected break-in or burglary shakes their sense of safety. Your family’s safety and security is a priority to us at TiTan Alarms, and we are here to help you protect not only your possessions, but your peace of mind. We have numerous customizable options to protect your home and make you feel safe. Our systems come with doorbell cameras, video surveillance, alarms, smart phone app control, and 24/7/365 monitoring. And most of our services use and upgrade your existing system! Talk with TiTan Alarms today about your needs. We will set you up with a reliable security system, and friendly, dependable service.
Call today: (918) 777-SAFE, and find out why Tulsa Trusts Titan!