According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program, there were 191,279 property crimes reported in Tennessee, with 137,708 of those being larceny-theft. That’s a lot of homes that were broken into and items stolen. While you may not be able to prevent someone from breaking into your home completely, there are five things you can do to make it more difficult and less appealing to criminals.
1. Install Smart Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting is one of the most important aspects of home security. Not only does it help you see what’s going on outside, but it also deters criminals from breaking in. One way to make your outdoor lighting more secure is to install smart lights. These lights can be controlled remotely, so you can turn them on and off when you’re not home.
Another great thing about smart lights is that they can be set to turn on and off at certain times of the day. For example, you can have them turn on at dusk and turn off at dawn. This will help make your home look occupied even when it’s not.
You can also opt for motion-sensor lights. These lights will turn on when someone walks near them, which can also help deter criminals.
If you’re not interested in installing smart outdoor lighting, you can always go with traditional outdoor lighting. Just be sure to place them in strategic locations around your home so that they provide adequate coverage.
2. Get a Home Security System
A home security system is another great way to make your home more secure. These systems come with various features, such as motion detectors, cameras, and alarms.
If you’re not sure which system is right for you, research different options. There are a lot of different home security systems on the market, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. Remember, as a pet parent, a home security system allows you to watch them when they are home alone.
When choosing a security system, be sure to read the reviews. This will help you get an idea of what other people think about the system and whether or not it’s worth the investment.
3. Burglar-Proof Your Front Door
According to research, 34% of burglars get into homes through the front door. This means that it’s important to take steps to burglar-proof your front door.
One way to do this is to install a security door. Security doors come with various features, such as locks, deadbolts, and alarms. They are also made from heavy-duty materials, which makes them difficult to breach. Remember to always lock your front door, even when you’re home. Otherwise, a criminal could simply walk right in.
4. Install Window Stops
Window stops are a great way to prevent burglars from entering your home through the window. These devices are installed on the windowsill and attached to the window frame. When the window is closed, the stop prevents it from opening more than a few inches.
Window stops are a great option for homes with large windows that burglars can easily access. They’re also a great option for homes with children or pets, as they can help prevent them from falling out of the window. Window stops are a relatively inexpensive way to increase your home security, and they can be installed in minutes.
5. Trim Your Trees and Hedges
Trees and hedges can provide criminals with a place to hide while they’re attempting to break into your home. This is why it’s important to keep them trimmed and well-maintained. If you don’t have the time or resources to trim your trees and hedges, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.
The interior design sector generates approximately $10 billion in revenue each year. While many people focus on the aesthetics of their homes, not enough homeowners prioritize security measures. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can increase your home security and help deter criminals from breaking into your home.