Methods To Deter Burglars in Columbia
An intrusion doesn’t usually happen the way you see it on TV. Instead, burglars seek out homes that have quick entry and no deterrents. Homes that appear guarded by a home security system -- or areas that are frequently occupied -- won’t meet a burglar's needs. They'll then look elsewhere for a dimly lit, poorly secured home where they know the family is away.
After covering all that, how best can you deter burglars in Columbia?
Set Up And Promote Your Home Security System
If you were a burglar and could break into any location in Columbia, would you choose the one that alerted the homeowners and authorities that a crime was taking place? Many burglars will look for the house of little resistance, and installing a security camera or motion detector will mean additional work and a likely trip to the police station.
Placing lawn signs and window decals about your home security system is an ideal starting point in making your property appear uninviting. Then install a couple outdoor security cameras. A doorbell camera works ideally as many burglars will first ring at the door to check if anyone is home.
For the interior, be certain you have sensors on all entryways. If someone does select your property to attempt to rob, the sensors will set off the high-decibel alarm and scare off burglars before they begin burgling. Letting thieves know you own a monitored security system is an added deterrent, as they know your security monitoring team will be informed of their attempt even if you’re traveling.
Lights Make It Appear Like You’re Home
By ensuring that your house isn't pitch black, you send out the appearance that someone's home. Flipping on your exterior lights or front room light when you're out might do the trick. Or mount a floodlight atop the back door or garage that shines on the area when it senses movement.
The problem with just leaving a lamp lit is that it can become predictable -- especially when you leave the area for a few days. Nowadays, you could put in some smart lights to make it look like you're at home. Through your mobile security app, you can put your smart bulbs on a schedule so that various rooms are lit at variable times, or activate them no matter where when you get a security alarm on your app.
Lock Your Doors And Windows
Securing your doors and windows before exiting the building will work wonders in deterring burglars in Columbia. Even if you make sure to bolt the front door, do you keep places like doggy doors, patio doors, and the side door from the garage to the house closed and bolted? Exterior doors need a minimum of a deadbolt lock that makes the door harder to break down. Smart locks are also handy, as you can receive an alert to your smart device if they are being meddled with. And do not stash house keys beneath the mat or garden rock.
Keep Your Travel Details Off Social Media
Many criminals will scout their objectives prior to the break in. Social media apps like Facebook and Instagram may show when you're away from the house. When you broadcast that you're in transit to the airport for a week-long business trip, you could have sent up an unintentional sign. Ensure you inspect your security options so that only close friends and family see your vacation images, or wait until you make it back to upload where you went.
Get The Best Home Security System In Columbia To Deter Burglars
Turn to the professionals at Secure24 Alarm Systems to enhance your security by adding motion detectors, cameras, and lights. We'll help you customize your home security system to your wishlist so you can make your house frightening to potential thieves. Just call (803) 380-6011 or send in the form today!