6 Home Security Common Mistakes That Can Expose You to Burglary

Burglaries are more common than you might think, with many of them actually happening during the day. While a home security system protects your belongings and loved ones, it might not be enough. The truth is, even the most advanced security systems cannot always help you if you make mistakes that expose you to burglary.

If you don't want to be a low-lying fruit to intruders, discover common mistakes to avoid.

1. Leaving the Doors and Windows Unlocked

Sadly, not all people lock their doors, especially during the day, due to the misguided belief that bad guys won't break in during the day or because the homeowners are home. Many burglaries now happen in broad daylight and are often done by people the homeowner knew. The burglar might actually know that you leave the door open.

A simple way to secure your home is ensuring that you always lock the doors whether you are indoors or when you step out briefly to have a chat with your neighbor.

Also, every time you open the windows for ventilation, don't forget to close them at the end of the day. Unlocked windows give burglars easy access to your home. Invest in some quality window locks, too.

2. Keeping the Blinds Open

Burglars can check what to steal by peeping through the windows. Once they spot some expensive items, your home might become a target for robbery. Always close the blinds when you aren't home. Also, go the extra mile and invest in thicker blinds so thieves cannot easily see through the windows.

3. Having Poor Lighting

Unfortunately, many homeowners only install a light at the back and front doors, leaving the rest of the property in darkness. You can eliminate this weak point by strategically installing motion detector lights on the back and sides of your home, around your garage, and any other blind spots.

Motion detector lights are efficient and effective in deterring burglars. Also, install some decorative lighting on your driveways and pathways. Light the entrances adequately for complete protection.

4. Forgetting the Garage

Since most homes attach to the garage, a thief can easily find their way into your house after entering the garage. Most homeowners' habit is to leave the garage door open as they work outside, which creates a perfect entry point for thieves.

Prevent this by always shutting the garage door and the door leading to your home from the garage. Alternatively, you can lower the garage door to block the inside view of the garage.

Also, don't leave the garage door remote in your vehicle after you park it. Thieves can break into your car, steal the remote, and use it to access your home through the garage. So always lock the car doors, and carry the garage door remote with you.

5. Advertising Items

After spending a fortune on your favorite TV brand, a smartphone, electronics, or a new generator, you might want to place the packaging on the curb for trash collection. When you do this, you forget that you advertise the new shiny toys inside the house. Instead, break down the boxes and throw them into trash bags.

Also, keep electronics, expensive jewelry, and other pricey items away from the windows where they are easily visible.

6. Posting Travel Plans on Social Media

Know when to hush when using social media. If you announce online that you are to go on a vacation, burglars will know you won't be home and might pounce on the opportunity to rob you. If you must, only share your travel information after you come back home.

Avoid these mistakes to stop making your home an easy target for burglars. Contact Phoenix Access Control to speak to our security professionals and learn how to beef up your home security.