Don't Fall Victim to Violent Crime - Follow These Simple Residential Security Tips

For the vast majority of us, our home is our sanctuary. No matter what’s happened in our day, whether we had a rough day at the office or something more jarring, coming home can leave us feeling safe and secure. The thought of having our private space broken into by thieves and criminals can leave us feeling stressed and anxious, and the reality is even worse. Follow these simple residential security tips to minimise your risk of falling victim to a violent crime.

Residential Security Tips

1. Lock the doors

This one is the most obvious, but it’s always worth pointing out. You’d be surprised how many criminals simply walk through open doors and into your home, taking whatever they want. We’ve found that a large proportion of would-be thieves have already decided to commit a burglary before the arrive at the scene. They are then looking for a suitable target. Whether you’re just popping down to the shops or heading away for the weekend, make sure all your doors and windows are locked – it’s one simple thing you can do which will have a huge impact on yours.

2. Empty appearance

Nothing says “easy target” like an empty home. If you are planning a trip away, try to leave some diversions to make it seem like there’s still someone there. An empty house tells criminals that they can take their time going through your home, without fear of being caught. The biggest giveaways are no cars in the driveway, no lights on at night, and letters sitting in letterboxes. Consider using automated lights which go on and off periodically, and if you’re taking your car away with you, ask your neighbours to collect your mail and park their car in your driveway.

3. Put your things away

One way to increase your and ensure your home looks less attractive to criminals is by putting away your valuables. A luxury car in the driveway and an expensive flat screen in the living room window tells criminals that there is plenty more where that came from. Keep your valuables out of sight, and keep your tools locked up as well. These can be used to break into your home – or worse, used as a weapon.

4. Invest in an alarm system

If you’ve done everything around your house to deter criminals and you’re still feeling unsafe, it might be time to invest in an alarm system. This can alert you, your neighbours, and your chosen company that there is suspicious activity occurring at your home. If you happen to be there when it happens, then it can be used to tell your security guards that you’re in trouble and need their help. You’ll be able to stop a violent crime before it happens, or catch the criminals in the act.

5. Install a sensor light

An alarm system isn’t within everyone’s budget, and if it sounds like something you can’t quite afford, then a sensor light can be a great alternative. Not only does it look like part of a complex system, but it will shine a light on anyone trying to break into your home. No burglar wants to be spotted trying to force open a door or window, and it will alert you to possible criminal activity taking place outside your home, giving you time to prepare yourself and call the police.

Nobody should feel as though their home isn’t safe, and no one should be at risk of a violent attack on their own property. These simple residential security tips can help protect you and your family from criminals and would-be thieves. If you want to know more about how you can keep your house safe and secure, meet with our experienced team for a free consultation.