To avoid being the victim of burglary, there is a wide range of steps a homeowner can take. Some, like locking doors or arranging for neighbors to watch the house, are free and just require a little planning and thought. Others, such as the installation of a sophisticated alarm system, can be moderate to expensive. But whether cheap or dear, your home and its possessions – and most of all, the safety of your loved ones – is paramount.

Start by thinking of your home from the perspective of the potential thief. Walk around the outside and try to spot weaknesses, possible points of entry, areas where a housebreaker can gain undetected access. Scale back bushes that can serve as camouflage. Think about the unprotected glass that is low to the ground.

Then, perform the same review at night. Consider the lights and shadows around your home. Think about any pathways that a stranger can walk down unheard and unseen. Consider the curtains and shutters that are open, allowing a well-lit view of the interior downstairs.

Start inexpensively by addressing the basics that cost little or nothing. A sturdy wooden or metal dowel can bar a sliding window. Good bolt locks won’t keep out every professional, but they’ll slow down many amateurs seeking that status. Make reciprocal arrangements with the nearby neighbors to watch their place, while they watch yours.

Burglars look for easy targets. Targets are much easier when there’s no one home. Fooling them into thinking you’re home can be as simple and inexpensive as installing a few timers around the house. A light on all the time, especially during the day, makes it obvious that no one is home. But lights, stereos and TVs that go on at random times simulate normal use. A dozen can be installed for under $100 dollars and often much less.

Alarms are reported to be the number one deterrent for burglars. Having a wireless home security system installed has become a popular and convenient tool for securing your home. The best systems provide a combination of protection for the exterior and interior of your home. This usually includes items such as motion sensors, cameras, window and door sensors, fire protection. The most important component is having a trustworthy company that monitors your system and is ready and able to respond if any one should try to break into your home.

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