Top Eight Budget Home Security Tips

December 28, 2009

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, an average of two million burglaries take place in the U.S. each year, almost 70 percent involving home residences. The total cost to victims amounts to $4.3 billion dollars, an average of $1,991 per offense.

The good news is that there are practical alternatives to expensive home security systems, which can run from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Below are some of the smartest strategies for protecting your home on a budget.

1. Secure the "paths of least resistance"
According to home security experts, burglars tend to avoid homes that are too much trouble to break into. Open windows, especially on the ground floor, and unlocked doors are an invitation for a burglar.

2. Display an alarm sign
Even if you don't have an alarm system, a sign can be a cheap and effective way to discourage potential burglars.

3. Place a block in sliding glass doors
Sliding doors are one of the easiest areas of the home for burglars to gain entry. A simple wood dowel placed in your sliding glass door track can prevent entry from the outside.

4. Attach sirens to doors or windows
These are cheap, effective alerts that attach easily to doors and windows to alert you of potential break-ins. They can be purchased at hardware stores for a few dollars.

5. Use an in-home safety deposit box
Use these especially for rarely used valuables and significant amounts of cash. Burglars know the places where most people hide valuables--namely, the bedroom. So even if you hide valuables in the home, try not to be predictable.

6. Keep shrubs and hedges well landscaped
Avoid the possibility of a burglar breaking into a window without being seen from the street. Overgrown hedges and landscaping that block outdoor windows can be an appealing entry-point for burglars.

7. Replace door locks if they are outdated
This is a big point of discussion for home security experts. Locks have changed a lot in the past few decades, and if yours are outdated, a burglar likely knows how to gain entrance with simple household tools like a screwdriver or pair of pliers.

8. Use what you do have
There's no sense in having a fancy alarm system or top of the line locks if you don't use them. Even if you're only going out for a cup of coffee, lock your doors and set the alarm if you have one.

With these security tips, you can prevent the headache, and heartache, of a home intrusion. Think smart and plan accordingly, and you and your family will sleep safer at night.

Sources
http://www.fbi.gov

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