Home intruders and burglars are a common threat to residents. Some may be trying to steal your belongings, while others may have the intention of committing other crimes while in your home. There are many steps to protecting yourself and your family from these criminals. The most important part of protecting your home is prevention. There are high-tech security systems, cameras, and timers used to protect people's homes, but there are also ways in which you can protect your home with simpler, less expensive mechanisms.



When burglar-proofing your home, you should try to put yourself in the shoes of the burglar. What would this criminal be looking for? Why would he choose your home over others? Do not draw interest to your home. You should make your home look occupied at all times. For example, always keep your garage door closed, keep a light on either inside and/or outside of the house, keep your doors closed, and do not have anything valuable visible from outside of the home. Many burglaries occur during the day, because intruders know that people work, so your home should look the same whether it is occupied or not. Burglars look for easy access, valuable items, and an unoccupied home.

If you know that you are going to be away for an extended period, you should do all that you can to make it appear as though you are not gone. Instead of canceling your mail and newspaper, have a neighbor come and pick it up, that way your home does appear to be disregarded by the post office. If possible have your phone calls forwarded. Burglars will often check to see if your home is occupied by making a phone call. Have your grass mowed or snow shoveled during the time that you are gone. Have a neighbor take your garbage cans out on pick up day, and return them afterwards. Always tell a trusted neighbor or friend in the neighborhood that you will be leaving.

Whether you are at home or not, your windows and doors should all have locks. Flimsy doorframes should be replaced. All entryways should appear secure. Burglars will rarely spend more than 5 minutes trying to break into your home. If you make it difficult for them, they most likely will not find it worth the effort. Good lighting is one of the best deterrents to crime. Most spotlights are inexpensive and easy to install, and will keep burglars away from your home at night. Anywhere around your home that could provide a good hiding place for prowlers should be lit up.

If you decide to install a security system, do not advertise it on your lawn or anywhere in front of your house. Although security systems are useful, many burglars are knowledgeable enough to disable them. Have a backup plan in case your system does get tampered with. For example, motion censored lights, and battery operated security systems will provide for suitable safety measures if the security system fails.

When securing your home from intruders, the best thing to do is use common sense. All entries should be locked at night or when the house is unoccupied. Always have a backup plan. If someone does get into your home, it is important to protect you and your family from personal and physical threats as well. Having a secure hiding place in your home is useful, as well as having a self-defense mechanism. Think about what features an intruder is looking for, and avoid them.