Protecting your home begins outside. Taking measures to discourage prospective burglars is the first step. In the unlikely event of an attempted break in, you want to have enough protection installed that they won’t succeed. Here are some of our best tips for securing the front of your home.

Secure the driveway

Keeping your driveway protected is important for your own safety as well as keeping burglars away. Installing proper lighting is crucial so that you can see where you are going and to deter criminals who prefer dimly or non-lit areas as they skulk around looking for a target. Motion-activated lights can be helpful, especially during the nighttime hours.

You should keep your driveway free of objects that can serve as a hiding spot for intruders. This includes cars, so if you have room in your garage, park your car there whenever possible and keep it locked. Driveways are one of the first places that intruders come upon as they approach your home. You want to make it unappealing to them.

Add yard signs and window stickers

The last thing a burglar wants to do is attempt a break-in at a home that clearly indicates they have security in place. A University of North Carolina study that surveyed 422 incarcerated burglars found that security signs were among the most considered security measures when evaluating a property for a potential burglary.

Security signs create the perception of surveillance and the danger of potential threats. Of those surveyed, 25% said they wouldn’t target a home with visible security signs.

Monitored American Alarm customers can request them here.

Fortify the front door

A lot of activity happens at the front door of your home. Family members come and go throughout the day, packages are delivered, and unexpected visitors come knocking. You’ll never have to open the door to a stranger if you have a peephole or video doorbell installed.

With a video doorbell, you can see who approaches your home even when you’re not there. Instead of answering the door, you can use the video doorbell to communicate with strangers. Video doorbells allow you to take a picture of the visitor if you get a suspicious feeling. While a peephole seems old school, the presence of one may deter criminals because they don’t know if someone is watching them. Other ways to protect your front door includes:

• Reinforce the door frame and hinges, especially old and weak ones.
• Add a security chain.
• If the front door has glass panels, upgrade to tempered glass or add security films.
• Upgrade the door lock and add a deadbolt.

Don’t forget window security

Windows are a common target for burglars, so don’t overlook window security features. It’s crucial to upgrade existing locks, especially for windows on the first floor, but do not neglect upper floor windows. Reinforce window glass with security film to strengthen the glass, making it harder for someone to break. Security screens and bars are an option if you are concerned about crime in your neighborhood.

Consider motion-sensor floodlights that will deter opportunistic burglars. They should be mounted at least 10 feet high, which will keep them from being disabled. Should anyone walk near your home’s windows, the lights will switch on immediately.

Stop burglars before they enter your home by taking a strategic approach to securing the front of your home. Using these tips is a good first step to make your home more secure and less appealing to burglars.

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