Many burglars look for the same thing when picking a home — owners who unknowingly invite them in. Below is a list of simple ways to protect yourself and your home from unwanted visitors.
1. Don't leave a ladder outside: Leaving a ladder in plain sight may be an invitation for a burglar to lean it against your home and easily reach a second-story window. Many home security systems aren't wired on the second story.
2. Watch what you recycle: Burglars often look through bins on trash day to see what empty boxes and other items have been put in the bin. Recycling a box for a big screen television and laptop tells them they can get both of those items in one stop.
3. Keep bushes and trees near windows trimmed back: Homes with overgrown landscaping are a good place for burglars to hide. Make sure to trim back bushes and trees near windows and make sure entry points to your home are visible from the street.
4. Lock windows and doors: Many people don't think someone would check every window and door to get into their home. Back doors left unlocked are a point of entry for burglars to remain unseen entering your home.
5. Be careful what you post on social media: In a time where we often announce what we are doing on social media, it's hard to not let everyone — including, possibly, burglars — know when you're going on a super-fun cruise. Instead consider posting photos when you return.
6. Avoid leaving telltale signs you are gone: If you are going to be out of town, ask someone you know or hire someone to mow the yard, gather the mail, and open and close various window shades. Lights on varying timers are great for simulating someone is home.
7. Don't put all your valuable eggs in a light basket: Small safes you can pick up and carry are often targeted during break ins. Invest in a wall safe or rent a lockbox at a bank for valuables instead.
8. Take caution when selling valuable items: If you’re selling items via Facebook Marketplace or other online sites, don’t have the prospective buyer come to your house. Consider taking a friend and meeting in a parking lot at a busy grocery store or the local police station.
These simple precautions will help keep your home from being an easy target for someone wishing to make your valuables their own!
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