The holiday season is just around the corner. You will be decorating, shopping and entertaining. The gifts will be rolling and you will stash them throughout the house. It’s the most wonderful time of the year – and burglars think so too. ‘Tis the season when valuables are ripe for the picking. But you can protect yourself, your loved ones, your home and your valuables by following these tips.
Keep the Lights On
Burglars are less likely to invade a home if the lights are on. If you are going to be away, leave a few lights on or set to a timer. Outdoor lights that come on automatically at nightfall are effective, and so are lights activated by motion sensors. Place them on your garage, at the back of your home, and at key points along the boundaries of your property. If anyone sets foot near your house, the whole world is going to know about it.
Secure Entrances
Every door and every window should have a good lock, and they should all be used. Burglars often enter through kitchen or second-story windows, so pay special attention to those points of access. Consider installing deadbolt locks on doors, and grills or safety screens over windows.
Use a Safe, Make it Safe
Don’t “hide” expensive items in your drawers or nightstand. Burglars will take a peek. Place valuables in a safe, bolt it down and hide it well. Did we say bolt it down? Do it, or a burglar could just walk off with it.
Make it Look Like You’re Home
Burglars have a keen eye for an unoccupied home. If you are going to be away, have your mail and newspaper stopped, and arrange to have your driveway and walkway cleared of snow. Give a house key to someone you trust and have them check in now and then or even house-sit for you.
Invest in a Security System
One of the best moves you can make is to install a security system. It will provide you with an alarm, video surveillance and round-the-clock supervision when you include monitoring service. Talk to the team at Johns Brothers Security about a security system that’s tailored to your home and your family’s needs.