The Best Ways to Scare Off a Burglar
Eliminate Tall Hedges and Thick Bushes
The right plants can make a big difference in your over all landscaping design, but if they hide part or all of a window, they are a perfect place for burglars to hide. Keep thick foliage around windows trimmed low. When planting these items near your house, consider placing them between windows instead of in front of them. Burglars like to enter through open windows or even by breaking windows, but they don't like the chance that a neighbor may see them doing the act. Regular maintenance and smart landscaping will help keep your home safe.Have Real or Fake Dogs
People have used dogs for a long time to protect property and family members. These animals can be very protective and fierce, two things that most criminals do not want to encounter if they can avoid it. You do not need to train a dog to be aggressive. Doing this could lead to legal issues if your dog attacks an innocent individual on your property. You can, however, reward your dog for barking at movement outside. A few barks will scare off anyone who might be up to mischief. "BEWARE OF DOG" signs are helpful, as well.If you don't want to deal with the responsibility of having a real pet, consider getting a fake one. You can purchase a good quality recorded bark to play anytime you hear strange noises. Some home security systems will play the recording automatically anytime they detect movement around the house.
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Install Lighting or Use Lights Wisely
You can also take steps to utilize the lights inside your home. You can leave lights on when you are gone so that it seems as if someone is home. Most burglars want to get in and out without being noticed, so lights are their enemies. Additionally, you can buy timers to trigger your lights to come on at different times throughout the night.
Buy Quality Locks
Not all locks are created equal. A quality lock is a big deterrent. However, if you fail to lock the lock, it is useless. Many burglars will try to open a window or door without picking the lock. If they cannot get in easily, they will go down to the next house that looks good. Check your windows and doors before leaving or going to bed. Be sure you double-check your second-story windows. Some professional criminals will pose as window washers or other general contractors in order to access your home through a second-story opening. It is often easier to get on a roof and into an open window, than most homeowners suspect.Don’t Forget Garage Doors
The garage is a great place to store your extra possessions and expensive tools. These are just the items that thieves like to take. They are easy to grab, since the garage is close to the street. Plus, they are easy to sell. Don't leave your garage door open when you are not by it. A 30-minute project in the back yard is more than enough time for your motorcycle to be pushed down the street.If you use a garage door opener, lock the door when leaving for extended trips. A neighbor may have the same frequency on their door and open yours by mistake. Not to mention, a criminal may drive around with a remote just trying to get lucky.
Some home burglaries are also the result of a thief stealing a car with a garage door opener. Once the person has your car, he or she can find your home address through your GPS, your insurance forms or your registration. At that point, it's a simple matter for the criminal to drive to your house. To help protect your assets, always lock the door leading from the garage into your home.