One out of 10 homes will be burglarized this year, and a much larger percentage will be targeted. Because most burglars will not spend longer than 60 seconds trying to break into a home before moving on, good locks and neighbors who watch out for each other can be invaluable. A small investment in time and money can ensure that your home is more secure and reduce your chances of being a victim. Here are a few things you can do to reduce your risk:
Make sure doors and windows are locked: In almost half of all completed residential burglaries, thieves gained access through unlocked doors and windows.
Secure all outside doors. Make sure they are equipped with a sturdy, well-installed dead-bolt lock.
Install outside lights and keep them on at night. Thieves hate bright lights.
Keep your yard clean. Prune back shrubbery that might hide doors or windows.
Join a neighborhood watch group, or start one with help from local law enforcement.
Don't advertise your absence. Answering machine messages saying you are gone or out of town just invite burglars.
Consider a more secure alternative (like giving an extra key to a neighbor you trust) to hiding keys around the outside of your home where someone you don't know might find it.
Remain alert. In addition to robbery, burglars often commit rape and assault if they are surprised by someone coming home, or when breaking into a home that is occupied.
