In addition to the installation and use of a home security system, there are other steps you can take to make your home more secure. Many break-ins occur simply due to a lackadaisical attitude and a feeling of “it will not happen to me.” Habits are developed that invite criminal activity. Home invasion is typically a crime of opportunity, and there are several things that may “invite” this action. Let us examine some of the more common habits and solutions to secure more efficiently.

Hidden windows or doors

There are several circumstances that can occur to “hide” windows or doors from public view.

Shrubs and bushes

Keep shrubs and bushes trimmed, thin, and low to the ground. Make sure that you can see your windows and doors from a distance. Criminals do not like a clear public view. High shrubs or bushes provide them a “barrier” to take their time, undiscovered to compromise the window or door.

High, solid fencing

Make sure the fencing you have is sturdy and well constructed. Install an interior locking device on any gates and USE them. Get into the habit of keeping your gates locked even when you are home. Be sure the construction is such that it does not provide easy access to climbing the fence (pigeon spikes along the top of the fence can be an added deterrent). Install motion detector spotlights in areas adjacent to the fencing along the perimeter of the house. Home security cameras can be installed quite affordably in these areas as a deterrent and to provide “eyes” when you are not at home or watching these areas.

RVs or other vehicles

Don’t park large vehicles adjacent to the house, as they can block public view of windows and doors in that area. Additionally, most RVs have ladders providing access to the RVs roof, and therefore possible access to a low roof and second floor windows. Park away from the house whenever possible. It is wise to install motion detector spotlights and home security cameras in these areas as well.

Awnings or patio furniture

Awnings and patio table umbrellas can potentially block windows and doors. If so featured, close your awnings and patio umbrellas when not in use. This will make it difficult for any would-be intruder to hide.

Basement window wells

Some homes have landscape wells within the gardens or shrubbery that surround basement windows. Even shrubs and bushes can easily hide these low windows. Basement windows are sometimes considered the easiest windows to compromise, but there are safeguards we can use to fortify them. Properly anchored window bars, sturdy metal mesh coverings, or relocation of shrubs can provide good protection for these vulnerable windows.

Dark or unlit areas

Be sure to provide sufficient lighting around the perimeter of your home. Motion detection spotlights can provide you with a “heads up” warning when they activate and give any would-be intruder a “surprise” at the same time. Use security timers set to “randomly” turn lights on and off when you are not at home or away on vacation.

Open Windows or Doors

Many feel that crime is not likely to occur when they are home and leave windows and doors unlocked or ajar. With today’s criminal, this is not necessarily the case. Increasingly, criminals have become more bold and brazen today than in the past. Many home invasions occur with the family at home, many times when they are asleep. The following are a few things you can do to safeguard against this.

Fresh air ventilation

In order to provide fresh air ventilation, many of us like to open windows or a door providing a “cleansing” draft through our home. When doing so, follow these guidelines to ensure better security. Keep screen doors locked when you are in the house. This can be an easy deterrent to the opportunistic criminal. To further safeguard against intrusion, the installation of an “alarm screen” in your door that is attached to your security system provides a higher level of security. Still, you need to be sure to lock the door as well. For windows, the installation of alarm screens is ideal for this as well. If screens are not in your budget at this time, you can install security pins on double hung windows very affordable.

To do this, be sure to only open the window a couple of inches, enough to allow airflow, but not enough for a criminal to fit through. Drill a hole in the top corner of the lower window frame that will also create a hole in the top sash, just snug enough to fit a 10-penny nail. Be sure to drill this seat for the nail at a slight downward angle. A hole can be placed for ventilation and for a secure lock when the window is closed. For roll-out windows, alarm screens are your best solution.

Proper locks for exterior doors

Install dead bolt style locks on all outside perimeter doors. If you install them yourself, be sure to use long enough screws to penetrate through the lock bolt plate into the door frame. When installing in a door with glass, use a lock that requires a key to open in either direction and store the key out of eyesight or reach of the doorway.

Ladders, porches, vehicles

If you store a ladder outside your home, be sure to chain lock it to an immovable object. Exposed and unlocked ladders provide access not only to your home, but to your neighbor’s home as well (be sure to print this article or e-mail to your neighbors!). A low porch roof or garage roof can provide an easy access to second story windows. Be sure to securely lock these windows and tie them into your home security system. Use the 10-penny nail method here as well. Vehicles parked too close to these areas can also provide a way to gain quick access by climbing to these roof areas. Be sure to park away from the house as discussed earlier.

Empty Garbage Cans, Stockpiling Mail and Newspapers

Never leave your garbage cans unattended out by the street if you are away for extended periods, even if just for a couple of days. This is a flashing sign to the opportunistic criminal that you may be away. The same goes for mail and newspapers. If you are going to be away for extended periods, visit the post office and have them hold your mail. Additionally, contact your paper carrier and ask them to hold your papers until you return, or have a trusted neighbor remove them from sight daily. The same neighbor can assist you with removing the garbage cans from sight as well. After all, you can reciprocate and do the same for them when they are away.

With some forethought, we all can develop the right habits to safely secure our homes. With the addition of a proper home security, smoke, carbon monoxide and medical alert alarm system, your home will be less of an “easy” target for the criminal.

This article was provided by Family’s Guardian. Don’t become a statistic…. visit www.familysguardian.com – For the best wireless home security system and life safety products to protect your family and home. Don’t let the burglar in!