8 Proven Tips to Deter Burglars and Stop Break-Ins

From enhancing your door security to managing your social media, these eight tips will help you prevent break-ins and keep your home safe from burglars.

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1. Reinforce Your Doors and Windows

Doors and windows are the most common entry points for burglars, so securing them is essential. Upgrade to solid core doors and install Grade 1 deadbolts, which are the toughest locks available. For windows, especially on the ground floor, consider adding window security films or even bars for added protection. Also, ensure all locks are in good condition and consider adding extra locking mechanisms to sliding doors.

Quick Tips:

• Install a strike plate with 3-inch screws to prevent kick-ins.
• Add security bars or pins to sliding doors.

2. Light Up Your Property

Burglars prefer to operate under the cover of darkness, so one of the simplest yet most effective deterrents is to light up your home. Install motion-sensor lights around the perimeter, especially near entry points like doors, windows, and garages. For an added layer of security, opt for smart lighting systems that can be controlled remotely, giving you the power to turn lights on and off even when you're not home.

Why It Works:

• Bright lights reduce hiding spots for burglars.
• Motion sensors can startle and deter potential intruders.

3. Use Security Cameras Wisely

Security cameras do more than just record footage; their presence alone can discourage would-be burglars. Place cameras at key points around your home, such as the front door, back door, and any blind spots. Modern systems often include features like two-way audio, which allows you to communicate with anyone on your property, and remote monitoring via smartphone apps.

Best Practices:

• Install cameras at a height where they can’t be easily tampered with.
• Use cameras with night vision for 24/7 monitoring.

4. Maintain Your Landscaping

Overgrown bushes and trees provide cover for burglars. Keep your landscaping trimmed and neat, especially near windows and entryways. Consider planting thorny bushes under windows to make them less appealing entry points. Additionally, keep ladders and tools locked away, as these can be used by burglars to gain access to higher levels.

Landscaping Tips:

• Trim hedges regularly to eliminate hiding spots.
• Plant thorny or dense shrubs beneath windows.

5. Don't Advertise Your Valuables

While it might be tempting to show off your latest gadgets or new car, visible valuables can make your home a target. Keep expensive items out of sight from windows, and be mindful of what you leave in your yard. Additionally, avoid leaving packaging for expensive items out on the curb for trash pickup, as this can signal to burglars what’s inside your home.

Protect Your Privacy:

• Use curtains or blinds to obscure the view inside your home.
• Store valuables like bicycles or grills in a locked garage or shed.

6. Make It Look Like Someone’s Home

Burglaries are more likely to occur when the home appears unoccupied. If you’re going away, even for a short time, take steps to make your home look lived in. Use timers for lights, radios, and TVs to create the illusion that someone is home. Ask a neighbor to pick up your mail and packages, and avoid posting your vacation plans on social media until you return.

Stay Safe While Away:

• Set timers to turn lights on and off at varying intervals.
• Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway.

7. Secure Your Garage

Your garage can be an easy entry point for burglars, especially if it’s attached to your home. Keep the garage door closed and locked at all times, and consider installing a smart garage door opener that alerts you when the door is left open. Additionally, secure any doors leading from the garage into your home with deadbolts and strong locks.

Garage Security Tips:

• Install a security sensor on your garage door.
• Keep tools and ladders locked up to prevent burglars from using them.

8. Build a Neighborhood Watch

There’s strength in numbers, and a tight-knit community is a burglar’s worst enemy. Get to know your neighbors and work together to keep an eye out for suspicious activity. Consider starting or joining a neighborhood watch program. Not only does this create a safer environment, but it also fosters a sense of community.

Community Efforts:

• Exchange contact information with neighbors for emergencies.
• Keep each other informed about unusual activity in the area.

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Sarah is an analytical insurance specialist with a background in economics and finance. She has worked as a risk management consultant for several major insurance companies and has a deep understanding of market dynamics. Sarah’s expertise lies particularly in property and casualty insurance.